Is Bashir's Injury a Major Setback for England in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Series?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Shoaib Bashir has been ruled out of the series due to a left finger fracture.
- England leads the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-1 after a thrilling third Test win.
- Bashir played a crucial role in the victory, claiming key wickets.
- England may need to adjust their strategy with Bashir's absence.
- Key bowlers like Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer performed exceptionally well in the last match.
London, July 14 (NationPress) England's off-spinner Shoaib Bashir, who played a pivotal role in securing a thrilling 22-run victory during the 3rd Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, has been officially ruled out for the remaining matches of the five-match series.
Bashir suffered a fracture in his left finger, leading to his exclusion from the ongoing Test series against India, as reported by ESPNCricinfo in an Instagram update shortly after England clinched the third Test, taking a 2-1 lead in the series.
The 21-year-old spinner claimed the critical wicket of Mohammed Siraj, finishing with figures of 1-6 in 5.5 overs, as India was bowled out for 170, falling short of the 193-run target. He had also taken a wicket in the first innings.
Siraj and Ravindra Jadeja had contributed 23 runs to the total, inching India closer to victory after they came together at 147 following Jasprit Bumrah’s dismissal.
For England, skipper Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer both took three wickets after bowling 24 and 16 overs, respectively, while Brydon Carse secured two. Despite his injury, Bashir managed to claim one wicket as England triumphed through relentless determination and patience in a remarkable Test match, coinciding with the anniversary of their ODI World Cup win at Lord’s six years ago.
With tension palpable among spectators, the final session began with Jadeja and Siraj cautiously accumulating singles while defending solidly.
However, on the fifth ball of the 75th over, Bashir delivered a spin that struck Siraj’s bat and rolled back to dislodge the leg-stump bail, igniting celebrations for England and despair for the Indian side. As the sole spinner in the England squad, it is anticipated that the team management will seek a replacement ahead of the fourth Test.