Shoaib Bashir will make his England comeback at Lord's on Thursday, ending an 11-month absence since his last Test appearance. The off-spinner has been selected ahead of all-rounder Rehan Ahmed for the first Rothesay Test of the summer against New Zealand.
Bashir's return to the England team
The 22-year-old last played for England in July 2024, when he took the match-winning wicket against India despite a broken finger. He was then surplus to requirements during the two-month Ashes tour in Australia. Head coach Brendon McCullum confirmed Bashir would reclaim his spot in the XI, citing his ability to play a holding role early in the match before shifting to an attacking role as the pitch deteriorates.
Selection battle for final spot
Only one position remains undecided in the England lineup. Hampshire's Sonny Baker is pushing for a debut, but Gus Atkinson is expected to retain his place after impressive performances at Lord's, where he has taken 19 wickets at an average of 10.94 and scored a century in two previous outings. McCullum praised Baker's pace and aggression, stating he swings the ball both ways and can touch 90mph, but suggested conditions would need to be favourable for him to play.
McCullum addressed the media more frequently than usual, acknowledging the scrutiny after a difficult winter for the team. He said: "The temperature has been a bit hot of late and we all recognise that. When you're in these positions, your job is to make sure you stand up and you're present."
