Liam Dawson returns to England Test team

Liam Dawson makes a surprising comeback to the England Test team as a new spin option.

Liam Dawson returns to Test cricket amid team changes

The forthcoming Test match at Old Trafford will feature Liam Dawson, who returns to the England Test team for the first time in eight years. This opportunity arises due to injuries sidelining other players, including Shoaib Bashir, who recently underwent surgery on his left little finger. While Dawson has been a strong performer in first-class cricket, Bashir was selected based on social media visibility rather than solid experience. This unexpected reentry allows England to explore a different spin option as they face India, known for their adeptness against spinners.

Dawson's inclusion highlights the unpredictability of team selection in cricket, where social media clout can sometimes eclipse merit-based selection. His experience could prove beneficial to a team under pressure against a formidable Indian side. The contrast between Dawson and Bashir also raises questions about the criteria used to pick players, especially when building a squad for Tests. As England looks to adapt their strategies, Dawson’s all-round capabilities may offer a refreshed dynamic in the squad that could prove vital in this pivotal series.

Highlights

As England experiments with their lineup, Dawson's performance will be closely watched.