IND vs ENG 2024: Shoaib Bashir reveals reason behind shirt number 67

Young England spinner Shoaib Bashir discussed the reason why he had selected the atypical jersey number 67. The 20-year-old made his Test debut in the ongoing game against India at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA International Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam and grabbed the attention with his exceptional performance in the first innings of the match.

The 20-year-old stated that he initially wanted a No. 13 jersey but later settled for No. 67. Interestingly, he chose the second number due to an odd reason.

“The reason, is that 13 is my favourite number and with the Lions they couldn’t give me 13. So I went with 67 [because] six plus seven equals 13,” Bashir said about his jersey number during a conversation with talkSPORT.

He further spoke about how veteran James Anderson has inspired him in building his career. The youngster also mentioned that 100 players made their debuts for England between him and Anderson.

“Jimmy is cap 613, I’m cap 713 so there’s a hundred caps between us. He’s an incredible lad, the experience is crazy and having Rooty out there helps a lot as well,” the off-spinner added.

Bashir shines as England restrict India to 396 

Bashir has made an impressive debut for England in Visakhapatnam. England bowlers carried their form from the first Test and bundled out India for 396 in their first innings after the hosts won the toss and opted to bat first. The Somerset spinner picked up two crucial wickets, dismissing Indian captain Rohit Sharma and starting all-rounder Axar Patel on the opening day itself. He went on to dismiss Mukesh Kumar to claim a three-wicket haul. 

“It was a very special moment receiving my Test Cap. For me to get Rohit Sharma as my first wicket was very, very special. He’s a great player of spin as well. Yeah, I just look so grateful to God and my family. They’ve supported me through thick and thin” Bashir said about his debut.