Dan Lawrence is an unlikely replacement for Ben Stokes in the England Test side against Pakistan. Lawrence is expected 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 signals the start of the post-Bazball era for the team.
Sam Curran and Dan Lawrence can bolster the England side if used wisely. Weather forecasts suggest that rain delays are anticipated during the opening Test match. The squad seems ready for this outing. Selectors have opted for this mix to provide flexibility. Early clues point to a tight contest ahead. Conditions may play a vital role. Both players offer flexibility that could end up useful. The transition to a new era brings modern thinking into selection.