London, July 13: England have been left concerned over the availability of off-spinner Shoaib Bashir after he sustained a finger injury on Day 3 of the ongoing third Test against India at Lord’s.
The incident occurred during his spell against Ravindra Jadeja, who struck a powerful drive straight back at the bowler.
Though it could have resulted in a caught-and-bowled opportunity, the ball struck Bashir’s left hand with force, appearing to dislocate his little finger.
The 20-year-old immediately signalled to the England dressing room for assistance, and Joe Root was called in to finish the over.
While there were initial hopes that Bashir would recover in time to bowl during the evening session, he did not return to the field and remained on the sidelines with England’s substitute fielders.
Ahead of Day 4, Bashir was seen bowling on a practice pitch with significant strapping on his fourth and fifth fingers.
However, questions remain over his fitness to bat in England’s ongoing second innings.
An official update from the England camp on Sunday morning confirmed: “Following his left little finger injury, Shoaib Bashir continues to be monitored and is expected to bowl in the fourth innings of this Test.
A decision on whether he will bat in the third innings will be made in due course. His involvement in the fourth Test at Emirates Old Trafford will be assessed at the end of the match.”
Bashir, who has claimed nine wickets at an average of 59.44 in the series so far, also dismissed KL Rahul on Day 3. Should he be ruled out of the fourth Test in Manchester, England have a few spin options in the wings.
Liam Dawson, Jack Leach, and Rehan Ahmed are all being considered, while head coach Brendon McCullum has clarified that Jacob Bethell is seen as a backup batter rather than an all-round option at No. 8.
England will be hoping for a swift recovery, especially with a pivotal phase of the five-match series approaching.
With the series finely balanced at 1-1 and the third Test entering a decisive phase, Bashir’s fitness could prove crucial to England’s plans, particularly on a surface that is beginning to offer more turn. The young spinner has shown glimpses of promise despite modest returns, and his ability to bowl long spells could be vital in the fourth innings. (Agencies)
