Dan Lawrence is an unexpected replacement for Ben Stokes in the England Test side against Pakistan. Lawrence is tipped in the starting 11 for the first Test match at Headingley. England won the toss and chose to bowl first under captain Joe Root. This fixture marks the start of the post-Bazball era for the team.
Sam Curran and Dan Lawrence can bolster the England side if used carefully. Weather forecasts show that rain delays are anticipated during the opening Test match. The squad seems ready for this challenge. Selectors have moved for this setup to provide depth. Early signs point to a tight contest ahead. Conditions may exert a key role. Both players offer versatility that could become useful. The transition to a new era brings new thinking into selection.