Manchester, July 21, 2025 – England have officially revealed their playing XI for the much-anticipated Manchester Test against India, set to begin on July 23 at Old Trafford.
The fourth Test of the five-match series holds immense significance, with England leading 2-1 and aiming to secure the series win on home soil.
The England team has made just one change from the side that secured a thrilling victory at Lord’s. Left-arm spinner Liam Dawson has been drafted into the squad in place of Shoaib Bashir, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the series due to a finger fracture sustained while fielding during the third Test.
Dawson, who last represented England in a Test match back in 2017, is making a comeback after an eight-year hiatus from the longest format. Interestingly, his Test debut was also against India in 2016. With seven wickets from just three Test matches, Dawson brings valuable experience and form into the Manchester Test.
The 35-year-old’s selection comes on the back of an impressive County Championship season, where he claimed 21 wickets in nine matches for Hampshire. His inclusion adds variety to England’s bowling attack for the crucial Manchester Test, where spin could again play a vital role.
The rest of the playing XI remains unchanged, with captain Ben Stokes leading a balanced side. The team includes Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, and Harry Brook in the batting order, with Jamie Smith continuing behind the stumps. The bowling unit will be spearheaded by Jofra Archer, Chris Woakes, and Brydon Carse, alongside Dawson.
The Manchester Test will be crucial for both teams as part of the ICC World Test Championship. For England, a win in Manchester would not only clinch the series but also boost their standing in the WTC points table. For India, a win would level the series and set the stage for a blockbuster decider.
With Old Trafford hosting its first Test of the summer, all eyes will be on how England capitalize on their momentum in Manchester.