England has announced a crucial change to their squad for the fourth Test against India, bringing in Liam Dawson to replace the injured Shoaib Bashir.
A Major Blow: Bashir Ruled Out
Young spinner Shoaib Bashir will miss the remainder of the England vs India Test series. He sustained a finger fracture during the third Test at Lord’s, which England won to take a 2-1 lead in the series.
Bashir’s injury occurred on the third day of the Lord’s Test. While bowling to Ravindra Jadeja, he was hit by a powerful drive on his left little finger.
The 21-year-old is now scheduled to undergo surgery later this week, confirming his unfortunate exit from the series.
Dawson’s Long-Awaited Comeback
In Bashir’s place, England has called up off-spinner Liam Dawson. This marks a significant return for the 35-year-old, who last played Test cricket for England back in July 2017 – a gap of eight years.
Dawson has been a standout performer in county cricket for Hampshire. His consistent form earned him the prestigious PCA Player of the Year award in both 2023 and 2024, highlighting his recent dominance in the domestic circuit.
English Men’s national selector, Luke Wright, expressed confidence in the selection. “Liam Dawson deserves his call-up. He has been in outstanding form in the County Championship and consistently puts in strong performances for Hampshire,” Wright stated.
Other Squad Adjustments
Alongside Dawson’s inclusion, the England Cricket Board (ECB) has also released pacers Sam Cook and Jamie Overton. Both players have returned to their respective counties to participate in the County Championship matches.
Looking Ahead to Old Trafford
The fourth Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 series is set to begin on July 23. It will be played at Emirates Old Trafford in Manchester.
England will be looking to build on their momentum from the third Test victory, with this refreshed squad hoping to secure another strong performance against India.
England Squad for 4th Test vs India
- 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 (wk)
- Josh Tongue
- Chris Woakes
This squad mix, blending experience with recent form, sets the stage for what promises to be another thrilling encounter in the Test series.
