Dan Lawrence is an unlikely 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 opted 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 steady the England side if used carefully. Weather forecasts suggest that rain delays are anticipated during the opening Test match. The side appears ready for this challenge. Selectors have moved for this mix to provide depth. Early indications point to a competitive contest ahead. Conditions may exert a major role. Both players offer versatility that could end up useful. The transition to a new era brings new thinking into selection.