Liam Dawson Returns to England Test Side After Eight Years for Old Trafford Clash

Liam Dawson Returns to England Test Side After Eight Years for Old Trafford Clash

Liam Dawson has been recalled to England’s Test side for the fourth match against India at Emirates Old Trafford, marking a stunning return after eight years in the international wilderness. The 35-year-old allrounder comes in as the only change to the XI that secured a dramatic win at Lord’s, replacing injured off-spinner Shoaib Bashir.

Bashir sustained a broken finger on his left hand during the first innings at Lord’s but heroically returned to bowl and claim the final wicket, sealing England’s 2-1 lead in the five-match series. He has since undergone surgery, with a wire inserted to aid recovery.

Dawson, who last played a Test in July 2017 against South Africa, will earn his fourth Test cap. A seasoned campaigner with 371 first-class wickets, Dawson has found a rich vein of form in recent years. Since 2021, he has claimed 12 five-wicket hauls and three ten-wicket match hauls. His performances for Hampshire since the 2023 season have been particularly noteworthy, taking 124 wickets at 25.64 and scoring over 1,400 runs at an average close to 55. He was named PCA Men's Player of the Year in 2024 after a prolific season with both bat and ball.

This summer, Dawson has continued to impress, scoring 536 runs at 44.66 and taking 21 wickets at an economy rate of 2.55. His all-round capabilities and experience will be vital for England on a surface expected to assist spin, particularly with rough areas outside the left-handers' off stump.

“He's a wily, old fox,” said limited-overs captain Harry Brook. “Very experienced and skilful. He’s played everywhere and against everyone, so hopefully he can deliver an amazing performance this week. He’s always willing to fight for the team.”

England have also opted against rushing Gus Atkinson back into action, with concerns over the soft outfield following weekend rain. Atkinson has been managing a hamstring injury suffered in May. Chris Woakes, who was seen as the player most likely to make way, retains his place despite a modest series so far. The 36-year-old has struggled with both bat and ball but has a superb record at Old Trafford—35 wickets at 17.37 and 221 runs at 36.83.

England’s XI for the fourth Test remains largely unchanged, with the team management backing experience and stability as they look to seal the series.

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

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