Why is Shoaib Bashir not playing in the Ashes?

Shoaib Bashir has been included in the England squad but has not yet been selected for any of the Tests, including the fourth Test in Melbourne.

What are the concerns about England's Ashes spinner selection?

Critics question the strategy of selecting a specialist spinner like Bashir and then not playing him, suggesting it creates a difficult situation for the player and team.

Has Shoaib Bashir played in the Ashes series?

No, as of the fourth Test, Shoaib Bashir has not yet made his debut in the Ashes series and remains an untested player.

Home / Sports / England's Bashir: Unused Ashes Ace?

England's Bashir: Unused Ashes Ace?

24 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Shoaib Bashir, 22, remains an untested prospect in England's Ashes campaign.
The off-spinner has been omitted from the fourth Test squad.
Former spinner Phil Tufnell questions Bashir's selection strategy.

Shoaib Bashir, the 22-year-old off-spinner, has become a curious footnote in England's challenging Ashes tour, present in discussions but yet to feature in any matches.

Despite being a specialist spinner, Bashir was notably excluded from England's lineup for the fourth Test, scheduled to commence on December 26th in Melbourne. This decision has ignited debate among cricket analysts.

Former England spinner Phil Tufnell expressed his bewilderment, suggesting that if Bashir is to be considered a viable option, he should have been given a chance, particularly in the third Test at Adelaide. Tufnell implied that the current selection approach has created a "no-win situation" regarding Bashir's availability.

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