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 ushers in 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 likely during the opening Test match. The unit appears ready for this outing. Selectors have moved for this setup to provide depth. Early indications point to a close contest ahead. Conditions may exert a key role. Both players offer flexibility that could prove useful. The change to a new era brings fresh thinking into selection.