Shoaib Bashir Makes Unexpected Inclusion in English Test Series Squad
The English team has opted for a 12-man selection just 48 hours ahead of the opening Test match, with the 22-year-old spinner securing a surprise spot.
Bashir's inclusion suggests that the tourists will wait until the morning of the initial match to determine whether Perth Stadium conditions favor a pace-heavy attack or the addition of a spinner.
Both pace bowlers are included in the selected squad, indicating there are no doubts about their fast bowler's fitness.
Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse round out the bowling group, with the latter expected to be omitted if the spinner enters the final team.
Ground Conditions Lean Toward Pace Bowlers
Brendon McCullum had been anticipated to choose an all-seam attack on a venue that has hosted several previous Tests.
During these games, 134 wickets have fallen to pace bowling, with only a small number to spin bowling.
Among these 40 wickets, the veteran spinner has taken 29, while overseas slow bowlers combined have just a handful.
At a venue known for its speed and carry, and whose groundsman, Isaac McDonald, pledged that these characteristics are “permanent and not going to change,” a team loaded with seamers remains the more likely choice.
Alternative Choices Weighed
Previously there was speculation that the all-rounder could be parachuted into the team to provide some slow bowling while additionally bolstering the batting lineup.
But McCullum has chosen to stick with Bashir, having stated earlier this year that he would be his preferred slow bowler for the series.
In July, Lyon commented on Bashir as “decent,” adding that “from my perspective, the experienced spinner is still England’s best spinner.”
“It is a massive role, and it can be a massive challenge for people who lack experience in the previous in these conditions,” Lyon said of slow bowling in matches Down Under.
“I won't let my secrets out so opponents perform and perform well out here.”
England 12-man Squad for First Ashes Test
- Ben Stokes (c)
- The Pace Bowler
- Gus Atkinson
- Shoaib Bashir
- The Batsman
- The Fast Bowler
- The Opener
- The Batsman
- Ollie Pope
- Joe Root
- Jamie Smith (wk)
- The Speedster
