The Young Spinner Earns Surprise Selection in England's Test Series Squad
England have chosen a 12-man squad just two days ahead of the opening Test match, with the 22-year-old spinner securing a surprise place.
Bashir's inclusion indicates that the visiting team will delay until the day of the first Test to determine whether Perth Stadium conditions favor four seamers or the inclusion of a spin bowler.
Jofra Archer and Mark Wood are part of the 12-man group, showing there are no concerns about their pace bowler’s fitness.
Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse complete the bowling group, with the latter expected to miss out if the spinner makes the final team.
Ground Conditions Favor Pace Bowlers
Brendon McCullum had been expected to choose an pace-only lineup on a venue that has staged several past matches.
During these matches, the majority of dismissals have been taken by pace bowling, with only a small number to spin.
Of those spin dismissals, the veteran spinner has taken the bulk, while overseas slow bowlers together have just a handful.
At a venue known for its pace and bounce, and whose groundsman, Isaac McDonald, stated that these characteristics are “permanent and not going to change,” a team relying on fast bowlers is still the probable choice.
Alternative Choices Weighed
Previously there was speculation that the all-rounder could be parachuted into the team to offer some spin while also strengthening the batting lineup.
However the coach has chosen to keep faith with the young spinner, having stated earlier this year that he would be his preferred slow bowler for the Ashes.
Earlier, Lyon commented on Bashir as “decent,” adding that “in my eyes, Jack Leach is still the English best spinner.”
“This is a massive role, and it can be a massive challenge for bowlers who lack experience in the previous in these conditions,” he said of spin bowling in Australian Tests.
“I won't reveal my strategies so opponents come out and perform well out here.”
England 12-man Squad for Opening Match
- The Captain
- The Pace Bowler
- The Seamer
- The Spinner
- Harry Brook
- Brydon Carse
- The Opener
- Ben Duckett
- The Middle-Order
- The Veteran
- Jamie Smith (wk)
- The Speedster
