Shoaib Bashir: Two Balls to Alastair Cook and a WhatsApp Forward from Ben Stokes Earned Him Test Debut vs. India
Shoaib Bashir, a 19-year-old off-spinner, made his first-class debut for Somerset in an English County Championship match against Essex about six and a half months ago. Although his initial performance didn’t create fireworks with just one wicket in 49 overs, it was enough to catch the eye of England’s Test captain, Ben Stokes. Somerset’s social media account uploaded a video of Bashir’s first over against the legendary Sir Alastair Cook, which immediately impressed Stokes. Despite being beaten twice by Bashir, Cook went on to score a superb 128.
What made Bashir stand out was his non-traditional run-up and action for an off-spinner. His unique approach and delivery from a good height created illusions for batters, a quality that caught the attention of Stokes and England’s coaching staff. After the video was forwarded to a WhatsApp group including head coach Brendon McCullum and ECB managing director Rob Key, Bashir was picked for the India tour. He proved his worth during England’s preparatory camp in Abu Dhabi and was ultimately selected for the second Test in Visakhapatnam.
However, visa issues sent Bashir back to London for formalities, causing uncertainty about his Test debut. But Jack Leach’s unavailability paved the way for Bashir’s selection in the XI, showing that Stokes and McCullum had full confidence in the young spinner. With his unusual approach and impressive performance in practice, Bashir has proven himself worthy of the opportunity. Now, it’s his turn to repay the faith of his captain and coaches as he prepares to make his Test debut against India.
News Highlight :
– Shoaib Bashir made his first-class debut for Somerset in an English County Championship match six and a half months ago
– He impressed England’s Test captain, Ben Stokes, with his performance
– Stokes saw a video of Bashir’s first over and forwarded it to the England team’s WhatsApp group
– Bashir was picked for the India tour due to his performance in Abu Dhabi and the Indian batters’ poor record against off-spinners
– Visa issues caused uncertainty for his Test future, but he eventually joined the team and was picked for the second Test against India
– Stokes, Brendon McCullum, and Ollie Pope were confident in Bashir’s abilities and included him in the XI
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