Shoaib Bashir has found his stride in the England dressing room, calling it his “happy place” after a challenging start to the county season. The 21-year-old Somerset spinner shrugged off a tough county campaign to claim three key wickets against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge.
Despite being England’s first-choice spinner, Bashir struggled to secure game time at Somerset, leading to a loan move for the second consecutive season to maintain his form ahead of Test duties. His recent stint at Glamorgan yielded just two wickets at an expensive average, but once on the Test stage, he rediscovered his rhythm.
Under Ben Stokes’ confident leadership, Bashir dismissed Craig Ervine, Sean Williams, and Tafadzwa Tsiga, finishing with impressive figures of three for 62. This performance saw him surpass Steven Finn to become the youngest English bowler to take 50 Test wickets—a remarkable achievement early in his career.
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With England enforcing the follow-on and leading by 270 runs on day two, Bashir is poised to enjoy his first winning match this year. Reflecting on his return to the Test side, he said, “I’ve really enjoyed being back. It’s always special putting on the England shirt and walking out with the boys. I feel incredibly supported here. While I’m backed in county cricket, England cricket is truly my happy place—it gives me confidence and makes me feel 10-foot tall.”
Stokes had reached out to Bashir at the start of the season to encourage him after a slow start, advice that clearly boosted his morale. “He called me to check in and told me to be ready when England needed me,” Bashir recalled. “Early in the season, my focus is on bowling overs and gaining experience. The results weren’t always there on loan, but bowling regularly helps me develop.”
During the match, Bashir endured a painful finger injury after diving for a caught-and-bowled chance but remained a vital part of the team. He praised Stokes’ impact, saying, “Whenever Stokesy takes the ball or comes out to bat, you know something’s happening. Having him as a fourth seamer strengthens our attack immensely.”
Although England’s victory push met resistance from Brian Bennett, the 21-year-old Zimbabwean who scored 139 runs, Bashir remains inspired. Bennett’s innings, filled with 26 fours, placed him alongside legends Murray Goodwin and Andy Flower as one of the few Zimbabweans to score a century versus England.
Bashir shared his own excitement about his record-breaking moment: “Seeing names like Zak Crawley on the honours board inspired me. Getting my name up there as the youngest English bowler to 50 Test wickets is an incredible feeling. It’s a huge milestone and one I’m proud to achieve.”