In a significant development ahead of the fourth Test match between India and England, England have confirmed a forced change in their lineup. Injured Shoaib Bashir out of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy after suffering a finger fracture, paving the way for Liam Dawson’s Test comeback in England’s XI.. Stepping into his place is seasoned left-arm spinner Liam Dawson, who has been added to the playing XI for the Manchester Test starting July 23 at Old Trafford.
Bashir’s Injury: A Costly Blow
A fracture in Shoaib Bashir’s left index finger was sustained while a powerful shot from Ravindra Jadeja was being intercepted by him on Day 3 of the third Test at Lord’s. The impact was severe enough to require surgical intervention. Following the procedure, England’s medical team confirmed that Bashir is unavailable for the remaining matches of the five-match series.
Liam Dawson Steps In
The injury to Bashir has opened the door for Liam Dawson’s return to Test cricket. Known for his control and ability to extract spin from responsive surfaces, Dawson brings experience and balance to the English side. His inclusion marks the only change in the playing XI as England aim to secure the series with one more victory.
Old Trafford Set for Crucial Clash
The fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy will be held at Old Trafford in Manchester, a venue known to assist spinners in the later stages of the match. A 2-1 lead in the series is currently held by England, and efforts will be made to secure the series outcome ahead of the final Test.
Series So Far
The five-match series has already seen dramatic turns, with England taking early control, India fighting back in the second Test, and England bouncing back at Lord’s. The injury to Shoaib Bashir is undoubtedly a setback for the hosts, but the inclusion of Liam Dawson could prove pivotal on a spin-friendly surface.
Liam Dawson Returns to Test Cricket After 8 Years
Liam Dawson’s return to England’s Test side marks a remarkable comeback, as the left-arm orthodox spinner last featured in a Test match back in 2017. Dawson was handed his Test debut against India in 2016, and since then, only three appearances have been made by him, yielding a total of seven wickets. His selection for the fourth Test is a reward for consistent performances at the domestic level.
The 35-year-old all-rounder has been in impressive form during the current County Championship season. A tally of 21 wickets in nine matches has been taken by Dawson while representing Hampshire, highlighting his preparedness for an international comeback.
England Retain Core Team from Lord’s Victory
Apart from the inclusion of Liam Dawson, England have retained the rest of their playing XI from the thrilling victory over India at Lord’s. The retention of the same squad has been seen as a reflection of the management’s trust in the players who performed under pressure and secured a vital 2-1 lead for England in the ICC World Test Championship series.
The highly anticipated fourth Test between England and India will begin on July 23 at Old Trafford, Manchester, where the pitch is expected to assist spin as the game progresses — making Dawson’s return even more significant.`
