England have announced their playing XI for the upcoming fourth Test against India, scheduled to take place at Old Trafford, Manchester, from 23 July. They have made just one change from the side that secured a win at Lord’s in the third Test — Liam Dawson comes in to replace the injured Shoaib Bashir.
Bashir has been ruled out of the remainder of the series after suffering a finger fracture. His replacement, Dawson, is set for a memorable return, as he will be playing his first Test match since 2017 — making it a comeback after eight years.
Jofra Archer, who marked a brilliant return to the longest format during the Lord’s Test, retains his place and is expected to continue his impressive form in Manchester.
There had been speculation around Zak Crawley’s spot in the side due to his underwhelming performances in the series so far. However, the England team management has backed the opener, keeping him in the XI.
England currently lead the five-match series 2-1. A win in Manchester would seal the series for Ben Stokes and his team, giving them an unassailable lead heading into the final Test.
India, meanwhile, have never won a Test match at Old Trafford, failing in all nine of their previous attempts at the venue. England will be keen to maintain that record and hand the visitors another defeat to wrap up the series with a game to spare.
England’s Playing XI
Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (vc), Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Liam Dawson, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer
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