The visa delay that once posed a “slight hassle” for 20-year-old England debutant Shoaib Bashir during the India tour is now a distant memory. Despite being of Pakistan heritage, Bashir couldn’t initially join the England squad in Hyderabad due to visa issues. However, his perseverance paid off, and he eventually made it to the middle of the Hyderabad Test, contributing to England’s memorable victory. Standing at 6’4, the off-spinner impressed on the opening day, showcasing why Captain Ben Stokes selected him after viewing a social media clip of his bowling.
Shoaib Bashir said: “It’s been a very special, special day. For all that I’ve been through in the last two to three years, it made it even more special. To get Rohit Sharma out, my first wicket, feels incredible.
“He’s a quality player, one of the best in the world and a great player of spin as well”
Having played just six first-class games before his breakthrough, Bashir emerged as England’s top spinner, delivering figures of two for 100 in 28 overs. Notably, he bowled the highest number of overs on that day. The journey wasn’t without hurdles, as Bashir had to fly back to England from Abu Dhabi to resolve his visa situation before heading to India. Stokes expressed initial devastation and contemplated staying in Abu Dhabi until the matter was resolved, but Bashir remained confident throughout, always certain about securing his visa.
He added: “No doubts at all, I always knew I would get the visa. It was a bit of a hassle but we’re here now, I’ve made my debut, and that’s all that matters. I was pretty chilled to be fair. I knew it would get sorted so thanks to ECB and BCCI for sorting out quite quickly.”
“(Growing up) Always been above average height, 6ft 4in does help with the spin I guess.”
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