Ben Stokes has reaffirmed that Shoaib Bashir remains England’s top spinner, even with his omission from the day’s Test against Australia at the Gabba. The England squad made one notable adjustment, swapping Mark Wood for Will Jacks, who was included for tactical reasons related to the pink-ball format.
Bashir’s Role and Future with England
Despite being left out, Bashir is still viewed as England’s best spin option for the Ashes series, comprising three upcoming Tests in Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. His absence from the playing XI follows a stint with the England Lions, where he is set to compete against Australia A at Allan Border Field.
Stokes emphasized the decision to finalize the squad based on tactical considerations, saying, “If it comes down to picking our best spinner, selection would go the other way.” Bashir’s last first-class appearance was during the second Test against India in July, where he sustained a broken finger. This injury and his expensive performance in warm-up games have raised questions about his readiness.
Mark Wood’s Injury Concerns
Mark Wood’s exclusion from the Gabba Test is also a concern for England. He recently underwent knee surgery and only bowled 11 overs in his return match. Stokes added that Wood is keen to return and the medical team is doing all they can to get him fit for selection later in the series.
Will Jacks: A Tactical Inclusion
Will Jacks’ inclusion reflects a tactical approach to maximize batting depth. Stokes noted his impressive training performances in Australia. After initially representing England in Pakistan three years ago, Jacks has worked hard to establish himself as a valuable player.
- Key Dates:
- December 17: Third Test in Adelaide
- Friday: England Lions match against Australia A
- Bashir’s Recent History:
- Last played first-class match: July 2023
- Injured finger sustained while attempting a catch
As the series progresses, the focus will remain on ensuring that both Jacks and Bashir can contribute effectively to England’s campaign, led by Stokes’ strategic decisions.
