Dan Lawrence is a surprising 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 signals 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 indicate that rain delays are possible during the opening Test match. The side seems ready for this outing. Selectors have moved for this mix to provide options. Early clues point to a tight contest ahead. Conditions may exert a key role. Both players offer versatility that could prove useful. The change to a new era brings new thinking into selection.