Liam Dawson looks forward to a long-awaited return to the England Test cricket team. That of course comes, if all goes to plan, against India at Old Trafford. For him it will be first Test appearance for eight years, having last played for England in 2017. At 35 years old, Dawson will make his fourth Test cap. This is an amazing turnaround considering his international career seemed to be coming to a close after the 2019 Cricket World Cup.
Dawson’s previous Test appearance against South Africa in July 2017. Since then he has been a rare stalwart in the chaotic world of domestic cricket, living up to the promise of his left-arm spin. He’s got a hell of a run. He averages almost 37 with the bat and 17 with the ball at Manchester, giving him extra value as a squad player.
England have made an adventurous decision in going for Dawson. This choice follows the injury inflicted to off-spinner Shoaib Bashir when on tour, breaking his finger amidst England’s resounding third-Test triumph at Lord’s. This swap further illustrates the team’s plan to strengthen their spin arsenal in the face of a deep, scary, intimidating, very scary Indian batting lineup.
Dawson’s trip back to the national squad has been impressive. His contribution was pivotal to England’s success at the 2019 World Cup. Now, he’s left sitting on the bench as the race for spots continues to intensify. His return to action is a testament to his fortitude and perseverance. He has been the standout batsman in domestic leagues for the most part of his career, scoring 18 first-class centuries in total.
Dawson has an extraordinarily high batting average of 35.29. This eclipses opener Zak Crawley and serves to underscore Dawson’s capacity to exert a telling influence with the bat. His ability to perform under pressure will be vital for England as they face India in a critical Test series.
“He’s been around the block, played hundreds of games and he’s a great bloke. He’s very competitive and he’s a very good player.” – Harry Brook
Dawson was last capped by England in 2017. In that time, his team has played 102 Test matches, building a unique disparity in his international career. As he returns to the field, Dawson not only adds talent but crucial championship experience to the team.
This upcoming match against India presents an opportunity for Dawson to reaffirm his place in the team and showcase his abilities on an international stage once again. His selection comes as a hard-fought personal victory. That is a token of his works over the years and hard work and dedication.
This upcoming match against India presents an opportunity for Dawson to reaffirm his place in the team and showcase his abilities on an international stage once again. His selection is not just a personal triumph but also a testament to his hard work and dedication over the years.
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