Dan Lawrence is a surprising 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 steady the England side if used carefully. Weather forecasts suggest that rain delays are possible during the opening Test match. The unit appears ready for this outing. Selectors have moved for this setup to provide options. Early signs point to a competitive contest ahead. Conditions may exert a major role. Both players offer flexibility that could become useful. The change to a new era brings modern thinking into selection.