
IND vs ENG: England have announced a key squad change ahead of the fourth Test against India in Manchester. Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir has been ruled out for the remainder of the series due to a fractured left hand, with veteran spinner Liam Dawson called up as his replacement.
The injury occurred during England’s gripping 22-run win over India at Lord’s in the third Test. Bashir, 21, injured his hand while fielding on Day 3. Despite the setback, he bravely returned to the field and picked up the final wicket that secured England’s victory, showing incredible grit and determination.
However, after further assessment and scans, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that the young spinner will not be available for the final two Tests of the series. It’s a significant blow for England, as Bashir had impressed with his calm temperament and ability to extract turn in tough conditions.
Dawson Returns After Nearly a Decade
In response, the selectors have turned to experience. Liam Dawson, who last played a Test match back in 2017, has been named in the squad for the fourth Test. The 35-year-old left-arm spinner made his Test debut against India in 2016 and has played three Tests overall, taking seven wickets.
Though not a regular in the national setup in recent years, Dawson has been in excellent form in the ongoing County Championship, where he has taken 21 wickets in nine matches for Hampshire. His strong domestic performances have kept him in contention, and the injury to Bashir has opened the door for his return.
Selector’s Backing and Tactical Move
England Men’s National Selector Luke Wright endorsed Dawson’s inclusion, stating:
“Liam Dawson deserves his call-up. He has been in outstanding form in the County Championship and consistently puts in strong performances for Hampshire.”
The decision appears tactical as well as practical. Dawson’s left-arm spin brings a different variation to England’s bowling lineup. With Old Trafford likely to assist spinners as the match progresses, his experience and control could prove crucial in maintaining pressure on the Indian batting order.
England’s Squad for 4th Test

With Dawson added, here’s England’s revised squad for the fourth Test at Old Trafford:
- Ben Stokes (captain)
- 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
England are currently 2-1 ahead in the five-match series, with the fourth match set to begin on July 23.
Looking Ahead: Will Dawson Play?
Whether Dawson makes it to the playing XI remains to be seen. England may weigh the spin-friendly conditions at Old Trafford alongside team balance and Dawson’s batting abilities, which offer added value lower down the order. His return also injects maturity into the squad, as younger spinners like Bashir and Rehan Ahmed continue to develop.
With India desperate to level the series and England looking to seal the deal, the fourth Test promises to be another thrilling chapter in an already fiercely contested series.
Conclusion
England’s decision to bring in Liam Dawson showcases their strategic depth and faith in consistent county performers. While Bashir’s injury is unfortunate, Dawson’s return could bring the stability and spin variety needed for the Manchester Test. All eyes will now be on how England utilize their newest addition in what is shaping up to be a crucial clash in the World Test Championship cycle