Dawson’s Long-Awaited Test Comeback
England’s squad for the fourth Test against India at Old Trafford welcomes a familiar face. Spinner Liam Dawson, aged 35, steps back into Test cricket after an eight-year hiatus. He replaces off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, sidelined with a broken finger from the thrilling Lord’s win.
Dawson’s recall marks his fourth Test cap, his last against South Africa in July 2017. Since then, England played 102 Tests, a gap matched by only six other players historically. This return, therefore, is a testament to his resilience.
Part of the 2019 World Cup-winning squad, Dawson’s international career seemed over. However, his inclusion leapfrogs Jack Leach, offering England a reliable slow left-arm option. Fans are buzzing as England, leading 2-1, chase a series win not seen since 2018.
Key Squad Decisions and Player Updates
Pace bowler Chris Woakes retains his spot despite a modest impact in the first three Tests. His four wickets at Lord’s, his best outing, justify the decision. Meanwhile, Gus Atkinson, recovering from a two-month hamstring injury, faces a cautious approach.
A fitness test at Old Trafford on Monday showed promise, but England opts against risking him. Atkinson will build match fitness with Surrey’s second XI against Somerset. Additionally, Mark Wood’s slim chance of returning for the fifth Test fades after knee surgery. He now targets white-ball matches against South Africa. These choices reflect England’s strategy to balance experience with recovery, ensuring a strong lineup for the crucial Manchester clash.
Dawson’s Dual Threat and Team Dynamics
Dawson brings more than spin to England’s attack. His lower-order batting adds depth, boasting 18 first-class hundreds and an average of 35.29—better than opener Zak Crawley. Harry Brook praised his skills to BBC Sport. “He brings experience and guile,” Brook said. “He’s competitive and a great bloke.” Dawson’s nerves, evident during his T20 comeback against West Indies in May, may resurface.
Yet, his vast experience—hundreds of games—should shine through. This recall, after a three-year absence, highlights his versatility. Teammates see him as a stabilizing force. Consequently, his presence boosts morale as England aim to seal the series, blending skill with seasoned leadership.
India’s Adjustments and Historical Context
India faces changes after their Lord’s defeat. All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy is out with a knee injury, forcing at least one alteration. Wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant, however, appears ready after batting in nets, recovering from a finger issue.
The big question is Jasprit Bumrah. The star pacer, slated for three Tests, has played two. With a week’s rest, India might unleash him to keep the series alive. Historically, India struggle in Manchester, losing all nine Tests since 1936. England, by contrast, lost only two of 20 Tests here this century. Therefore, the ground favors England, adding pressure on India to break their streak.
Series Implications and Future Outlook
A victory at Old Trafford would crown England series winners, a feat absent since 2018. The current 2-1 lead sets the stage for a dramatic finish. England’s XI—Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, Liam Dawson, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and Jofra Archer—blends experience with emerging talent.
Stokes’ leadership, alongside Dawson’s return, fuels optimism. For India, Bumrah’s potential return could shift momentum. The match, therefore, is a pivotal moment. Beyond this, England eyes the Ashes, where this grit will be tested. Fans anticipate a thrilling encounter, with Old Trafford poised to witness history. Source: BBC Sport