Aoba Tanaka 
England is grappling with a setback ahead of the second Test in Visakhapatnam, as Jack Leach has been confirmed unavailable due to a knee injury sustained in the first Test. Leach’s valiant efforts in the historic win over India were marred by the injury, leading to his exclusion from the upcoming match.
Leach, who battled through the pain to contribute to England’s triumph, has been diagnosed with a deep bruise, preventing his participation in the crucial encounter. Ben Stokes, England’s skipper, expressed disappointment over Leach’s injury, acknowledging its impact on the team, especially after the spinner’s comeback following a back stress fracture.
Stokes, facing the challenge of naming the playing XI, hinted at the possibility of an extra seamer in the lineup. However, he confirmed that Leach would not be part of the squad for the second Test. The uncapped offspinner Shoaib Bashir, Leach’s Somerset teammate, is now in contention to fill the void left by the injured spinner.
Shoaib Bashir, who arrived in India during the first Test after a visa delay, has been training with the squad and awaits a potential Test debut. Stokes encouraged Bashir to seize the opportunity, emphasizing the unique experience of playing one’s first Test match.
Stokes remarked, “If he does play, then I will be trying to make it as enjoyable and fun for him as I can. Myself, Baz [Brendon McCullum] and Popey [vice-captain Ollie Pope] will probably have a longer think about it.”
Bashir’s journey to the England squad began with an impressive spell against Alastair Cook on his first-class debut for Somerset. Stokes, who first noticed Bashir through social media, forwarded a clip of his performance to the team management. The spinner’s enthusiasm to return to the squad after resolving visa issues was noted by Stokes.
Reflecting on Bashir’s potential inclusion, Stokes highlighted the spinner’s unique bowling style, expressing confidence in his ability to succeed in Indian conditions. He drew parallels with the successful debut performances of other spinners in challenging conditions.
England faces a crucial decision ahead of the second Test, with Shoaib Bashir in contention to make his Test debut and contribute to England’s quest for another historic win on Indian soil.
