England's Captain Ben Stokes praised Shoaib Bashir's impressive display, noting that the young off-spinner had proven his abilities to the world. This came after Bashir's outstanding bowling performance led England to victory in the second Test against the West Indies at Trent Bridge.
In the final session of the fourth day, Bashir's 5-41 figures helped dismiss the West Indies for 143, securing a 241-run win and a 2-0 series lead. At just 20 years and 282 days old, Bashir became the youngest England bowler to achieve a five-wicket haul in a home Test and the first spinner to take five wickets in an innings at Trent Bridge since 2006.
Stokes highlighted Bashir's immense talent and strong desire to improve, expressing how remarkable it was for such a young player to deliver a match-winning performance. The captain mentioned Bashir's emotional response at the end, acknowledging the significance of the day for him.
Initially an unexpected choice for England's winter tour of India after only six first-class matches, Bashir has since achieved three five-wicket hauls in five Tests. Notably, he wasn't needed to bowl during England's dominant win in the first Test at Lord's the previous week. Stokes reiterated that Bashir's primary goal is always to take wickets, not just maintain control.
Despite Jack Leach being the preferred spinner for Somerset, England selected Bashir, who even had to go on loan to Worcestershire earlier in the summer for more playtime in the County Championship. Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum identified Bashir’s height as a crucial factor, as his 6ft 4in frame and 2.35m release point contribute to his exceptional bounce.
Stokes emphasised that their decisions are based on both talent potential and immediate suitability for international cricket. Reflecting on Bashir’s performance in India and the recent match, Stokes suggested that his success validated their choice.
Bashir first caught Stokes' attention through a video on X (formerly Twitter), showing his debut against England's top run-scorer, Sir Alastair Cook. Stokes shared the video with McCullum and England's managing director Rob Key.
Cook, speaking on Test Match Special, remarked on Bashir's high potential, noting his learning curve and consistent performance. Cook predicted that in a decade, Bashir would look back and realise how much he has improved, even though he is already delivering results for England.
With 24 wickets in his first five Tests, Bashir ranks third among England spinners since World War Two, following Nick Cook and Graeme Swann. Bashir himself had never been to Trent Bridge before his debut in Nottingham.
After setting a target of 385 for the West Indies, Bashir led England's attack, bowling them out in 36.1 overs after tea on Sunday. Speaking to Test Match Special, Bashir expressed how special it was to bowl for England at home and finish the match within a session. He acknowledged the support from his teammates and the rapid pace of the innings.
England has named an unchanged squad for the third Test at Edgbaston, aiming for a 3-0 series sweep.