Harry Brook praised Liam Dawson after he was named to England’s XI for the fourth Test of their five-match series against India. Shoaib Bashir suffered a non-bowling hand injury, so 35-year-old Dawson stepped in as his replacement and is expected to play his first red-ball game since July 2017.

The England batsman praised the all-rounder’s experience and all-round abilities. He also praised Dawson’s desire to win as an added boost to the squad, citing the latter’s bat record as well. The young batter believes it is always beneficial to have guys like Dawson in the locker room.

“He’s a cunning old fox, [and] very experienced. He is also a very skilled cricketer. He has played everywhere, against everyone. Hopefully, he can land it in the foot-holes and add some spice to the game while also providing opportunities to take wickets. He’s undoubtedly a great batter as well, with nearly 20 (18) First-Class hundreds. That strengthens our batting. He’s a kind guy who is always willing to fight for his team. He’s really competitive, and we’re glad to have him here,” he remarked at the pre-match press conference on Monday.

Not in the same league as him, so I’ll gladly let him have it. Brook

The No. 5 batter shed light on the recent shift in the ICC Test batter rankings, in which he was dethroned by Joe Root as the No. 1 batter, in what has been a see-saw ride between two of England’s most consistent players.

“Everybody wants to be number one, right? He probably has more than anyone else. He’s an excellent player. I am not in the same league as him, so I will gladly let him have it. He’s been playing for 12-13 years, or however long he has played. “In my opinion, he’s the best Test batter of all time, so I’ll give him that one for now,” Brook continued.

England presently leads the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2-1 after a dramatic 22-run victory at Lord’s. The fourth Test is slated to begin on Wednesday, July 23, at Old Trafford in Manchester.