Liam Dawson Returns To The Fold After Eight-Year Absence As England Announce Playing XI For Fourth Test Against Team India

The England Cricket Board have unveiled their Playing XI for the upcoming test match against Team India at the iconic Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester. The English side boasts only one change, with Liam Dawson returning to the test fold after an eight-year absence. He replaces Shoaib Bashir, who suffered an injury in the third test match against India at the Lord's Cricket Ground.

England Cricket Name Just One Change For Old Trafford Test Against Team India

The England Men's National Cricket Team have soared to new heights in red-ball cricket after defeating Team India in the third test match at the Lord's Cricket Ground. It was a heartbreaking defeat for the visitors as they kept the game going till day five, putting up a tough fight to the opposition. But the Ben Stokes-led side stood triumphant, gaining a clinical 2-1 lead over the Indian men's national cricket team.

With all eyes locked in on the fourth test match, England Cricket have named their Playing XI for the upcoming test match at the Old Trafford in Manchester. Liam Dawson returned to the English test fold after an eight-year absence, replacing Shoaib Bashir in action against Team India. 

No other changes have been made to the side, as the team opted to stay with the players who helped them win the third test match at the Lord's Cricket Ground in London.

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England Playing XI For The Fourth Test Match Against India At Old Trafford: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Liam Dawson, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer.

Key Update On Shoaib Bashir's Injury Surfaces

Shoaib Bashir suffered a broken finger on his left hand while in action against India. The spinner sustained the injury during the first innings of the third test match. Despite the injury, Bashir stood guard and helped secure England the clinical series lead by 2-1. The 21-year-old picked up the prized wicket of Mohammed Siraj to clinch the win. 

Also Read: Mohammed Siraj Gears Up For Redemption, Pacer Speaks On Sharpening Batting Skills After Lord’s Heartbreak

As per ESPNcricinfo, Shoaib Bashir has underwent an operation on his finger, and “a wire inserted in his left pinkie finger to ensure it heals properly.”

The fourth test match between India and England will take place from Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at the Old Trafford Cricket Ground in Manchester, UK.