Key Points

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has strongly advocated for Liam Dawson's inclusion in the national T20 squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Dawson's exceptional performance in his first international match in three years, taking 4/20 against West Indies, has reignited discussions about his potential tournament role. England captain Harry Brook supports the strategy of featuring experienced spinners like Dawson and Adil Rashid in their lineup. With the upcoming World Cup in spin-friendly conditions of India and Sri Lanka, Dawson's expertise could prove crucial for the team's success.

Key Points: Nasser Hussain Backs Liam Dawson for England's T20 World Cup

  • Dawson's 4/20 performance impresses former captain
  • England targets 2026 T20 World Cup in India/Sri Lanka
  • Harry Brook supports spinner strategy
3 min read

Nasser Hussain stresses on Liam Dawson's inclusion in England's squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Nasser Hussain champions Liam Dawson's return to England's T20 squad after match-winning performance against West Indies

"I thought it was a masterclass of left-arm spin bowling - Nasser Hussain"

London, June 7

Former captain Nasser Hussain has urged England to pick seasoned left-arm spinner Liam Dawson in their 2026 T20 World Cup squad after he delivered a "masterclass" in the series-opening win over West Indies on Friday.

In his 12th T20I and his first in three years for England, Dawson was adjudged the Player of the Match after returning with figures 4/20 for the hosts in their 21-run triumph against the West Indies.

The T20 World Cup is set to be held in India and Sri Lanka early next year, two Asian countries known for their spin-favouring conditions. Despite his sporadic career with the Three Lions, Hussain has advocated for the inclusion of the 35-year-old ball tweaker in the marquee tournament.

"There has been a lot of people asking for him to come back into the side for a number of years. He's done it for Hampshire and for franchises around the world. He thinks like a batter because he is one. He goes quick, quick with his variations and then lobs one upright on a length," Hussain said, as quoted from Sky Sports.

"He has that sense of when a batter is coming at him. I thought it was a masterclass of left-arm spin bowling. It's great to have him back in the side. And with the [2026] T20 World Cup coming up in India and Sri Lanka, he's got to play," he added.

England captain Harry Brook, who secured his fourth consecutive victory in as many white-ball games, is playing his cards with the T20 World Cup in view. Before competing in the highly anticipated tournament, England will feature in 14 T20Is.

"We don't want to look too far ahead, but we've got to trial some things like this. The next World Cup is going to be in Sri Lanka and India. We're not completely set on this structure for the team, but it's worth a go, and it worked this time, Brook said of the move to play only two front-line seamers for the first time in home conditions.

"I just think that having two very good spinners - front-line spinners - makes a massive difference. These two [Dawson and Adil Rashid] have been playing the game for so long, they know T20 cricket, they know the grounds, and they've played against so many of these boys, that having them both in the side will help us going forward," he added.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
Smart call by Hussain! Spinners will be crucial in Indian conditions. Dawson's experience in franchise cricket makes him perfect for subcontinent pitches. England need to prepare well if they want to challenge Asian teams at their own game. 🇮🇳🏏
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Priya M.
At 35, isn't Dawson too old for T20 cricket? England should focus on younger talent who can serve them longer. Indian pitches may favor spinners, but you need athletic fielders too which might be tough for him. Just my thoughts!
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Arjun S.
England finally realizing what we've known for decades - spin is king in Asia! 😄 But seriously, Dawson-Rashid combo could be dangerous in India/SL. Hope our batsmen are preparing well to counter them. #TeamIndia
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Shweta R.
Interesting strategy by England. But they shouldn't forget that Indian batsmen grow up playing spin from childhood. Our players like Rohit, Kohli, and the young guns will feast on any average spinner, regardless of conditions.
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Vikram J.
England's spin focus is good, but they need to balance it with pace. Our Indian pitches aren't what they used to be - many grounds now have true bounce that helps fast bowlers too. Don't put all eggs in spin basket!
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Neha P.
As an Indian cricket fan, I love seeing teams adapt to our conditions! Makes for more competitive matches. Hope the 2026 WC gives us exciting India-England clashes. May the best team win! 🏆

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