Shoaib Bashir Ruled Out of India Series with Broken Finger, Dawson Recalled for Fourth Test

England have named a 14-player squad for the fourth Test against India in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, with veteran all-rounder Liam Dawson earning a surprise recall. The 35-year-old comes in for off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the series with a broken finger.

Dawson hasn’t featured in a Test match since July 2017, but his form on the domestic circuit has made him impossible to ignore. A standout performer for Hampshire, he was named the PCA Player of the Year in both 2023 and 2024. Speaking about Dawson’s inclusion, England’s national selector Luke Wright said, “Liam Dawson deserves his call-up. He has been in outstanding form in the County Championship and consistently puts in strong performances for Hampshire.” The call-up marks a significant moment for Dawson, who has quietly been grinding it out in county cricket while England’s Test side underwent several transitions in recent years. 

England might be riding high after their dramatic 22-run win over India at Lord’s, giving them a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, but the victory came at a cost. Bashir, who had been impressive with the ball, suffered a nasty blow to his left little finger while trying to stop a fierce drive from Ravindra Jadeja on Day 3. He was in visible discomfort but still pushed through to bowl a few overs in India’s second innings and even picked up the final wicket to seal the win. 

Despite his heroic effort, the injury turned out to be more serious than initially thought. England confirmed via Instagram shortly after the Test that Bashir had fractured his finger and would require surgery. “Sadly, Bash has sustained a fracture to his left finger and has been ruled out of the remainder of the series against India,” the post read. “He is scheduled to undergo surgery later this week, and we wish him all the best. Go well, @Shoaib_Bashir13.” 

In other squad changes, fast bowlers Sam Cook and Jamie Overton have been released to return to their counties and will feature in the ongoing County Championship. 

With the series hanging in the balance, all eyes now turn to how England line up in the fourth Test. Jofra Archer, Chris Woakes, and Josh Tongue provide the pace options, while Dawson could step into a key role if the pitch assists spin. 

England Squad for 4th Test vs India: 

 Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes. 

Also Read: Jadeja, Bumrah, Siraj's Epic Fightback with Bat in Eng vs Ind 3rd Test