England have announced their playing XI for the highly anticipated fourth Test against India, set to commence on July 23 at Old Trafford, Manchester. The announcement brings a single but significant change to the team lineup that secured a memorable victory at Lord’s. Liam Dawson has replaced Shoaib Bashir, who sadly had to be ruled out of the series due to a fractured finger sustained during play. This update marks Dawson’s return to Test cricket after an eight-year hiatus since his last appearance in 2017.

Liam Dawson returns to Test cricket after eight years

The inclusion of Dawson, a left-arm orthodox spinner, is a thoughtful nod to experience and current form. Dawson originally debuted against India in 2016 and has a modest tally of seven wickets from his previous three Test matches. At 35 years old, he is a seasoned campaigner, and his recall is testament to his impressive form in the ongoing County Championship. There, he has taken 21 wickets in nine matches representing Hampshire, showcasing his ability to trouble batters consistently.

His return fills the void left by Bashir, whose finger injury during the third Test put him out of action. Bashir had been England’s sole frontline spinner thus far, making Dawson’s role all the more vital in balancing the bowling attack. Dawson’s experience and variation promise to bring tactical depth as England aim to extend their 2-1 lead against India and win the series.

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England’s strategy of stability with a touch of freshness

Apart from the one change, England has retained the other ten players who were instrumental in the nail-biting win over India at Lord’s, signalling a strategic vote of confidence in the existing squad. The playing XI features a blend of youthful firepower and seasoned prowess, this mixture reflects England’s commitment to continuity while adapting to unforeseen circumstances, such as Bashir’s injury. The batting lineup, led by the captain Ben Stokes along with Joe Root and Harry Brook, remains potent, while the bowling attack balances pace with spin, enhanced by Dawson’s crafty left-arm style.

As the fourth Test unfolds at Old Trafford, all eyes will be on how Dawson adapts to Test cricket’s rigors after a long gap and how England capitalizes on its strengthened lineup to press their advantage in this fiercely contested series.

England’s decision to include Dawson over a promising newcomer underscores the importance of experience and current form at this critical juncture. It sets the stage for an intriguing contest where England seeks to consolidate its standing in the World Test Championship while India looks to level the series.

England’s playing XI against India for the fourth Test

Zak Crawley, ⁠Ben Duckett, ⁠Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), ⁠Liam Dawson, ⁠Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer

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