Injured Shoaib Bashir Ruled Out of Final Two India Tests After Heroic Lord's Performance

England spinner Shoaib Bashir has been ruled out of the final two Tests against India after suffering a fractured little finger on his non-bowling hand, ending his involvement in what has become one of the most fiercely contested series in recent memory.

The 20-year-old offspinner, who played a crucial role in England’s dramatic 22-run victory at Lord’s in the third Test, is set to undergo surgery later this week, leaving England to consider replacements ahead of the fourth Test at Old Trafford, beginning July 23.

Bashir’s Grit and Glory

Bashir sustained the injury on day three of the match while attempting a sharp return catch from a Ravindra Jadeja drive. Despite the fracture, he continued to play a part in the Test — showcasing remarkable bravery by batting through the pain in England’s second innings and later returning to bowl during the tense final session.

With his ring and little finger splinted and heavily bandaged, Bashir bowled two spells on the final day, the second of which produced a fairy-tale moment. In the 56th over of India’s chase, with the visitors inching closer to an incredible comeback, Bashir dismissed Mohammed Siraj with a delivery that dribbled off the bat and onto the stumps — sealing one of the closest wins in Lord’s history and handing England a 2-1 series lead.

"It was written in the stars," said England captain Ben Stokes. "The courage that he showed… just proves how much it means to everyone who puts the shirt on."

Stokes Hails Bashir's Commitment

Speaking after the match, Stokes praised Bashir’s commitment and composure under immense pressure. "There would be a lot of people who might not necessarily have been brave enough to go out there and face Bumrah and then also put himself up for wanting to bowl and help his team."

The emotional moment between Bashir and Stokes after the final wicket, captured in a long embrace, highlighted the significance of the young spinner's contribution, even as it marked a bittersweet farewell to the series.

England Look to Dawson or Leach

With Bashir now unavailable, England are weighing their options for a replacement. Liam Dawson, who recently made a strong return in the T20I series against West Indies with figures of 4 for 20, is a leading candidate. Jack Leach, who has been out with injury, also remains in contention.

England will announce their squad for the fourth Test in the coming days.

Series So Far

Bashir has claimed 10 wickets at an average of 54.10 in the series so far. His final contribution — 1 for 6 in 5.5 overs in the second innings at Lord’s — may be numerically modest, but the significance of that one wicket could hardly be greater.

England now head to Manchester with renewed momentum but will miss the grit and determination of a young spinner who proved he belongs on the biggest stage.

Match Summary (3rd Test, Lord's):
England: 387 & 192
India: 387 & 170
Result: England won by 22 runs; lead series 2-1.