England Pick Bashir in 12-Man Squad for Perth Ashes Clash
In a surprising tactical move, England have named 20-year-old off-spinner Shoaib Bashir in their 12-man squad for the crucial Ashes Test in Perth. The decision, confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), has ignited debates as England look to bounce back after trailing 1-0 in the series.
Why Bashir? The Rising Star’s Journey
Bashir, a Surrey-born spinner of Pakistani heritage, has impressed in the County Championship with his sharp turn and control. Despite his limited international exposure, England’s leadership duo—Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes—believe his unconventional style could unsettle Australia.
“Perth’s pitch can slow down later in the game,” McCullum explained. “Bashir gives us a wicket-taking threat when it matters most.”
Perth’s Pitch: Spin or Pace?
While Optus Stadium is famed for its pace-friendly conditions, recent Tests have seen increasing turn on Days 4–5. England’s gamble suggests they’re preparing for a wear-and-tear battle, banking on Bashir to exploit late deterioration.
The squad retains a strong pace unit (Anderson, Broad, Wood), but omitting an extra seamer like Ollie Robinson hints at England’s adaptive strategy.
Mixed Reactions from Experts
- Support: Ex-England skipper Michael Vaughan called it a “bold, visionary pick.”
- Skepticism: Australia’s Mitchell Johnson warned, “Over-relying on spin early in Perth could backfire.”
Ashes Implications
With the series on the line, Bashir’s inclusion adds intrigue. If selected, he’ll partner Jack Leach, marking England’s rare dual-spin approach in Perth—a potential game-changer.
Final Verdict
England’s bold call reflects their “Bazball” mentality: aggressive, unorthodox, and unpredictable. Whether Bashir delivers under Ashes pressure will shape the series’ narrative.
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