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Excitement brews in the cricket world as young England spinner Shoaib Bashir is poised to make his debut in the upcoming second Test against India at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium. The Three Lions have announced their playing XI, making two crucial changes from the victorious squad of the opening Test in Hyderabad.
Bashir steps in for the unfortunate Jack Leach, who sustained a knee injury while fielding in the previous thrilling 28-run win over the hosts. Leach’s injury worsened during the same match, hindering his performance and leading to his exclusion from the second Test. Meanwhile, seasoned pacer James Anderson makes a return, taking the place of Mark Wood.
England’s skipper Ben Stokes expressed confidence in Bashir’s potential, emphasizing the positive aspect of the young spinner making his debut on this tour. Stokes sees it as an opportunity for Bashir to showcase his skills without the burden of expectations.
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“If he was to play on this tour, then the great thing he has on his side is, what is there to lose?” Stokes remarked. “You only play your first Test match once. If he does play, then I will be trying to make it as enjoyable for him as I can,” he added.
England’s Playing XI for the second Test includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jonny Bairstow, Ben Stokes (C), Ben Foakes, Rehan Ahmed, Tom Hartley, Shoaib Bashir, and James Anderson.
The cricket community eagerly anticipates Bashir’s debut, and England aims to maintain its winning momentum in the ongoing series against India.
–IANS
