In a match that will be remembered for its dramatic final-session finish, England pulled off a thrilling 22-run victory over India in the third Test at Lord’s. With India chasing 193, England’s bowlers held their nerve as Shoaib Bashir claimed the final wicket to level the five-match series 2-2. The narrow win sets up a high-stakes fourth Test at Old Trafford, starting July 23.
Shoaib Bashir ruled out of the Test series against India
While Bashir was England’s hero on the final day at Lord’s, the young off-spinner has now been ruled out of the rest of the series. He fractured the little finger of his non-bowling (left) hand while attempting a return catch off a powerful Ravindra Jadeja drive during the third day’s play. The ECB confirmed that Bashir will undergo surgery later this week and won’t be available for the fourth or fifth Test.
Hampshire veteran replaces Bashir for the fourth Test
With Bashir sidelined, England have turned to experience by naming spin-bowling allrounder Liam Dawson as his replacement. The 35-year-old is set to make his Test return after more than eight years, having last featured in 2017. Dawson’s stellar performances in county cricket — including PCA Player-of-the-Year honours in 2023 and 2024 — have earned him the nod from the selectors. He has taken 21 wickets in nine County Championship games this season and 11 wickets in ten Vitality Blast matches.
“Liam Dawson deserves his call-up. He has been in outstanding form in the County Championship and consistently puts in strong performances for Hampshire,” said national selector Luke Wright in a statement.
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England squad for the fourth Test:
Ben Stokes (captain), 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