by 🧢 Why Liam Dawson was chosen
- Experience: Dawson last played Test cricket in 2017, making his return after an eight-year hiatus .
- Form: With 371 first-class wickets and a batting average over 35, his recent County Championship performances (21 wickets this season) impressed selectors .
- Team balance: He brings both spin options and depth down the lower order—a key asset for the spin-friendly Old Trafford pitch .
Luke Wright, England Men’s National Selector, highlighted Dawson’s “outstanding form” for Hampshire as the driving reason behind his recall . England Call Up Replacement.
Bashir’s Situation
Bashir broke the finger on his left (non-bowling) hand early in the third Test but bravely continued to bowl and famously took the final wicket in England’s thrilling 22‑run win . However, the fracture requires surgery, ruling him out of the rest of the series .
The Upcoming Fourth Test
| Match | Dates | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Fourth Test vs India | July 23–27 | Old Trafford, Manchester |
England currently lead the five-Test series 2–1 and are seeking to extend that advantage on home soil .
Squad Snapshot (Fourth Test)
England Squad:
Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes .
Seamers Sam Cook and Jamie Overton have been released to play county cricket .
What this means
- Dawson’s inclusion strengthens England’s spin and batting options—likely a response to the conditions at Old Trafford.
- The decision also suggests Joe Root’s off-spin may see less action, with Dawson offering a more rounded profile.
- Bashir’s absence is a significant setback given his breakout performances earlier in the series.
