NEW DELHI: England have drafted in veteran all-rounder Liam Dawson as a replacement for the injured Shoaib Bashir ahead of the crucial fourth Test against India at Old Trafford, starting July 23.
The 21-year-old Bashir, who played a key role in England’s thrilling 22-run win at Lord’s by claiming the final wicket, has been ruled out of the remainder of the series after fracturing his left-hand finger while attempting a caught-and-bowled in the third Test. Despite the injury, Bashir returned on Day 5 to bowl England to victory and hand the hosts a 2-1 lead in the five-match series.
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With Bashir sidelined, England have turned to the experience of Dawson, who made his Test debut in India back in 2016. The 35-year-old Hampshire all-rounder, who last played a Test eight years ago, has been in prolific form in the County Championship this season, impressing selectors with his consistency with both bat and ball.
Luke Wright, England Men’s National Selector, said,
“Liam Dawson deserves his call-up. He has been outstanding in the County Championship and consistently delivers strong performances for Hampshire.”
While England could have recalled Jack Leach, Dawson’s all-round capabilities and his solid first-class batting average tipped the scales in his favour, offering England a balanced option as they look to seal the series in Manchester.
The fourth Test now promises added intrigue, with England banking on Dawson’s experience and form, while India will look to level the series with two Tests to go.
