Veteran all-rounder Liam Dawson is set to make a long-awaited return to the England Test team, marking his first appearance in the longest format in eight years.
His selection comes as the only change to the squad for the crucial fourth Test at Old Trafford, as England look to extend their 2-1 series lead in the ongoing five-match contest.
Dawson replaces young off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, who suffered an unfortunate injury during the first innings of the third Test at Lord’s.
Bashir fractured a finger on his left hand but, demonstrating remarkable grit, still managed to bowl in the second innings.
He played a pivotal role by claiming the final wicket, helping England secure a vital win and take the lead in the series.
Dawson’s Experience Brings Depth to the Squad
Speaking to the media ahead of the Test, England batter Harry Brook praised Dawson’s vast experience and tactical intelligence.
“He’s a wily old fox,” Brook said with admiration on Monday. “Liam’s been around the game a long time. He’s a very experienced and skilful cricketer.
He’s played in all conditions, against all sorts of opposition, and brings a wealth of knowledge to the dressing room. We’re confident he can deliver a big performance this week.”
Brook emphasized Dawson’s potential to exploit conditions at Old Trafford, especially with the pitch showing signs of wear throughout the series.
“There have been significant footholes forming for left-handed batters outside off stump. Hopefully, Liam can target those areas and generate some turn and bounce.
If he lands it consistently in the rough, he could create plenty of wicket-taking chances,” Brook explained. He added, “The best part about Dawson is his willingness to fight for the team. He’s got the heart of a competitor.”
Tensions and Banter on the Field
Brook also reflected on the intense on-field exchanges during the previous Test match, particularly when Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah bowled an aggressive over to openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett during a tense evening session.
“India came at us hard, especially at Creeps (Crawley) and Ducky (Duckett) during that over from Bumrah. There was a lot of energy, a lot of chirping,” Brook recalled.
However, the England side used the confrontation as motivation.
“We watched that spell closely and reassessed our game plan. We felt it was the right moment to respond and go back at them. That sort of battle lifts the whole team.”
Brook noted that England’s fielding response created a charged atmosphere that reflected their fighting spirit.
“It looked like it was 11 versus two when we were out in the field. Everyone was buzzing. It was electric—great fun to be part of,” he said with a smile.
With Dawson back in the mix and England full of confidence following their third Test triumph, the stage is set for a fiery showdown at Old Trafford.
The team hopes to clinch the series and continue their resurgence in the Test arena.
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