The third Test between England and India has reached its final day, with both sides firmly in contention for a thrilling finish at Lord’s. India need 135 runs to win, while England require six wickets to seal the victory. As both teams strategize and prepare for the decisive day, a key update from the hosts has added an intriguing twist to the build-up.
England share key update on Shoaib Bashir’s injury ahead of Final Day at Lord’s
England’s batting coach Marcus Trescothick provided a key update on Shoaib Bashir’s finger injury during the post-Day 4 press conference. He confirmed that the spinner is fit to bowl and was available if required. As the injury was caused by an external blow, Bashir can come on to bowl whenever needed and may leave the field when not in use, as per regulations. The coach added that if the situation demands, Bashir will be ready to bowl on the final day.
“He’s fit to bowl, was ready to ball. I think it comes in the regulation – he can come on to bowl as and when he’s needed, and then if he’s not bowling at any stage, he can then come back off because it’s obviously an external blow. So, should we need him, he will be ready to bowl,” Trescothick told to media.
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Bashir’s availability is crucial for England on the final day
On Day 3 at Lord’s, Bashir injured his left hand while attempting a difficult caught-and-bowled chance off Ravindra Jadeja’s powerful shot. The ball struck his little finger, forcing him to leave the field for treatment, and he did not bowl again that day. Although Bashir came out to bat in England’s second innings, he wasn’t handed the ball when India began their chase. With the pitch showing significant assistance for spinners as England surrendered to Washington Sundar in the third innings, Bashir’s availability becomes crucial—especially with noticeable rough patches developing on the surface. His fitness remains uncertain heading into the final day, adding to England’s concerns as the match builds toward a tense finish.
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