England spinner Shoaib Bashir has reportedly been declared fit to bowl in India’s second innings of the third Test at Lord’s, but his participation in the fourth Test at Old Trafford remains uncertain. The off-spinner injured his little finger while trying to catch Ravindra Jadeja during the first innings and had to leave the field for medical attention.
With Bashir unavailable, England relied on Joe Root’s part-time spin for the remainder of the day. Before exiting, Bashir had bowled 14.5 overs, conceding 59 runs and taking the vital wicket of KL Rahul. The injury occurred when Bashir attempted a low return catch and was struck forcefully on the hand.
He immediately showed signs of discomfort, raising his injured hand in concern. As England bowl last in the match for the first time in the series, Bashir’s role becomes even more significant. With the pitch deteriorating under the hot sun and visible footmarks developing, his presence could be crucial in helping England take control on the final day.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) stated that a decision on Shoaib Bashir’s availability for the fourth Test will be made by the team management after the conclusion of the ongoing match at Lord’s.
“Following his left little finger injury, Shoaib Bashir continues to be monitored and is expected to bowl in the fourth innings of this Test. A decision on whether he will bat in the third innings will be made in due course. His involvement in the fourth Test at Emirates Old Trafford will be assessed at the end of the match,” the statement read.
Shoaib Bashir Emerges As Key Spinner With 9 Wickets In Series
Shoaib Bashir was chosen as England’s lone specialist spinner for the series opener at Headingley and has held onto his spot since. In the first Test, he claimed three wickets, notably dismissing centurions Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant.
During the second Test at Edgbaston, Bashir bowled an exhausting 71 overs and secured five wickets. So far in the series, he has taken a total of nine wickets at an average of 59.44.
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