Liam Dawson Returns to England Test Squad After Shoaib Bashir Injury

Veteran Spinner Liam Dawson Returns to England Squad for Fourth Test

Liam Dawson, the experienced left-arm spinner, has been recalled to the England Test squad for the crucial fourth Test against India at Old Trafford, Manchester. This selection comes after Shoaib Bashir suffered a finger fracture on his left hand, ruling him out of the remainder of the series.

Dawson played last of his three Tests for England back in 2017. © Getty

Dawson, aged 35, last represented England in a Test match in July 2017 against South Africa. His consistent performances for Hampshire over the past two years have earned him recognition, including the prestigious PCA Player of the Year award in both 2023 and 2024. Throughout his career, Dawson has participated in only three Tests, claiming seven wickets.

Meanwhile, pace bowlers Sam Cook and Jamie Overton are set to rejoin their respective county teams to participate in the County Championship.

Luke Wright, England Men's National Selector, commented on Dawson's selection, emphasizing that the Hampshire player has rightfully earned his place in the squad. "Liam Dawson deserves his call-up," Wright stated. "He has been in outstanding form in the County Championship and consistently puts in strong performances for Hampshire."

England has maintained the same squad composition as announced prior to the third Test, with the inclusion of Dawson being the only alteration.

England Squad for Fourth Test:

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, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes