India v England: Liam Dawson gives England the balance they have needed, says Nasser Hussain
Saturday 17 December 2016 16:25, UK
England have belatedly found the answer of how best to balance their side on the subcontinent in the form of "tough cricketer" Liam Dawson, says Nasser Hussain.
The Hampshire all-rounder batted at No 8 as he marked his Test debut with an unbeaten 66 in England's first innings.
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After England were roundly criticised for going in with four seamers in Mumbai, Hussain believes Dawson's batting ability as much as the third spin option he provides makes him a far better fit in subcontinent conditions.
"I've been very impressed and I think England probably have stumbled on the formula that we've all been debating throughout the series," Hussain told Sky Sports. "I felt that they've been one man down [in the rest of the series].
"I've been saying 'play the extra batsmen', some have been saying 'play the extra spinner' and what they've done with Dawson is manage to get both in one. If you look at him in first class cricket, he's a batsman who bowls a bit of left-arm spin."
Dawson's approach to his first Test innings also drew praise after he shook off a blow to the head second ball and retained his composure throughout his time in the middle.
"I've been impressed with his attitude and persona at the crease," Hussain said. "[Zafar] Ansari looked a little bit meek but Dawson looked as though he was up for it.
"Second ball he got whacked on the head, they've lost three quick wickets so here you find out about someone. I think that is why Andy Flower has always liked him when he's gone out on Lions tours.
"They don't see him as a flash cricketer, they see him as a tough cricketer. He showed that today."
However, Hussain was keen to point out that Dawson may have to wait for his next opportunity in the Test arena as in English and other less spin-friendly conditions, he is less suited.
"He's the answer for here," he added. "He's probably not the answer for many other places in the world but that is what he is going to have to put up with. Perhaps that is even what the second spinner is going to have to put up with."
Watch day three of the fifth Test between India and England from 3.45am on Sunday, Sky Sports 2.
