Ben Stokes Backs Experienced Dawson Ahead of 4th Test Return
As the India tour of England reaches its fourth Test at Old Trafford, England captain Ben Stokes has firmly pledged his support behind the recalled veteran spinner Liam Dawson, making his first appearance in Test cricket since 2017. Here’s why Stokes believes Dawson is ready, and how this selection shapes the key series decider in Manchester.
Why Dawson’s Return Matters
Liam Dawson, a 35-year-old all-rounder from Hampshire, is back in the XI after a finger injury to rookie spinner Shoaib Bashir during the thrilling Lord’s Test. Dawson’s recall is significant—not just because it fills a spot, but because it reverses years of England’s recent trend of prioritizing high-ceiling, unproven talent over seasoned county performers.
County Form Pays Off
- Over the past two seasons, Dawson hauled 49 wickets in 2023 and 54 in 2024 for Hampshire.
- So far this summer, he’s already claimed 21 wickets at an impressive first-class average, alongside a handy batting average of 44.66.
- With 18 first-class centuries, Dawson brings experience, stability, and proven skill—exactly the kind of “pragmatic choice” England’s selectors are leaning toward.
Stokes’ Firm Endorsement
Speaking before the crucial fourth Test, Stokes expressed high confidence in Dawson’s return:
“He’s a very good cricketer … he can just come back in and get to work straight away.”
“There’ll be a bit of nerves … but I’m sure he’ll come good this week.”
“If you keep working hard … the door will be open for the Ashes potentially.”
This isn’t mere locker-room encouragement. It shows trust in Dawson not only as a tactical fit but as a stabilizer in the pressure cooker of a pivotal Test.
Absence of Eight Years, But No Rust
Dawson returns after nearly a decade away from Test cricket, but his impact in white-ball cricket—including T20I appearances this summer with 5 wickets and a career-best 4/20—suggests he’s far from rusty.
His ability to perform instantaneously, highlighted by contributions in T20s and domestic red-ball cricket, underscores his readiness for the Test stage.
The Tactical Fit at Old Trafford
- Dawson brings flexibility with slow left-arm orthodox spin, which can control runs, build pressure, and complement England’s seamers.
- His batting prowess gives England depth, offering options in the middle or lower order.
- His presence allows England to balance spin-versatility with seam aggression—a mix Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum prize.
England’s Evolving Selection Strategy
Dawson’s selection marks a shift from England’s recent talent-maximization approach, which leaned toward unproven youth and high-ceiling picks. Now, selectors are re-embracing seasoned county performers who consistently deliver form and reliability.
Other Key Factors at Old Trafford
- With a 2–1 lead, England look to secure a first home series win over India in seven years.
- The pitch is expected to aid bowlers under cloudy skies.
- England’s strategy hinges on a mix of seam and spin; Dawson’s inclusion addresses that balance.
Ben Stokes’ endorsement of Liam Dawson speaks volumes—not just about faith in the man, but about England’s broader tactical and selection recalibration. Dawson brings the right blend of experience, control, and batting depth. As the fourth Test unfolds, his performance could be the stabilizing factor England needs to close out the series at Old Trafford.
Stay tuned—Dawson’s return could be a quiet yet pivotal moment in a high-stakes Test.
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