England has announced its playing XI for the crucial fourth Test against India in Manchester, confirming one forced change due to injury.
One Change for Manchester Showdown
The England cricket team on Monday unveiled their lineup for the upcoming fourth Test against India, set to kick off on Wednesday. The hosts have made just one alteration to the squad that triumphed at Lord’s, replacing injured off-spinner Shoaib Bashir with Liam Dawson.
Bashir Ruled Out with Finger Fracture
Shoaib Bashir’s promising run in the series has unfortunately come to an end. He was officially ruled out of the remaining Tests against India on Monday due to a fracture in his left finger. This injury was sustained during the third Test at Lord’s, a match England won to take a 2-1 series lead.
Bashir is scheduled to undergo surgery later this week to address the injury. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had previously announced his status a couple of weeks ago, confirming his exit from the series.
How the Injury Occurred
The incident happened on the third day of the Lord’s Test while Bashir was bowling to India’s Ravindra Jadeja. Jadeja struck a powerful, low drive straight back at the bowler, leading to the injury to Bashir’s little finger on his left hand.
Despite the injury, Bashir continued to contribute, bowling 5.5 overs in India’s second innings. He even had the distinction of taking the final wicket, dismissing Mohammed Siraj, to seal England’s memorable 22-run victory.
Dawson’s Long-Awaited Return
Liam Dawson now steps into the spotlight, making his comeback to Test cricket after an eight-year hiatus. His last Test appearance for England was back in July 2017.
The 35-year-old left-arm spinner has been a standout performer for Hampshire in county cricket. His consistent contributions were recognized with the PCA Player of the Year award in both 2023 and 2024.
Other Squad Updates
Prior to this announcement, the ECB had also released pacers Sam Cook and Jamie Overton. Both players have returned to their respective counties to participate in the ongoing County Championship.
Series Heating Up
The five-match Test series is finely poised, with England currently leading India 2-1. England secured victories in the first and third Tests held at Leeds and Lord’s, respectively, while India claimed a win at Edgbaston.
- England announced one forced change to their Playing XI for the 4th Test.
- Off-spinner Liam Dawson replaces the injured Shoaib Bashir.
- Bashir sustained a finger fracture during the 3rd Test at Lord’s.
- Dawson returns to Test cricket after an eight-year gap.
- England currently leads the series 2-1.
The stage is now set for a gripping contest in Manchester as both teams battle for supremacy in this exciting Test series.
