Sun Jul 13 15:50:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Bashir Injury Scare: England Spinner to Bowl, Batting Unclear After Lord’s Blow**
**Lord’s, England** – England spinner Shoaib Bashir suffered a painful blow to his left little finger during the third Test against India at Lord’s, raising concerns about his continued participation in the match and the upcoming fourth Test.
The incident occurred on Day 3 when Ravindra Jadeja struck a powerful drive back towards Bashir, who was unable to react in time and was hit on the fingers while attempting a catch. The 21-year-old immediately left the field in visible discomfort.
However, in a positive update on Day 4, England Cricket Board (ECB) stated that Bashir is expected to bowl in India’s fourth innings. His ability to bat in England’s third innings remains uncertain and a decision will be made later. The ECB confirmed that his participation in the fourth Test at Emirates Old Trafford will be evaluated at the conclusion of the Lord’s match.
In Bashir’s absence, veteran Joe Root stepped in to complete the over and has taken over the spin duties.
The injury occurred after India’s KL Rahul reached his second Test century of the ICC World Test Championship series. Rahul’s impressive innings, which included a towering stand with Rishabh Pant, eventually came to an end when Bashir finally dismissed him, finding the outside edge. India finished their first innings at 387, equalling England’s first innings total.
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