LONDON — Former England captain Michael Vaughan has claimed that veteran spinner Liam Dawson makes England a "better side" and should be a regular fixture in the squad, particularly in white-ball cricket. Vaughan's comments come amid growing debate over England's spin options ahead of major tournaments.
Dawson, 34, has been in and out of England’s limited-overs setup since his debut in 2016 but has recently impressed in domestic and franchise cricket. Vaughan argued that Dawson’s experience, control, and ability to contribute with the bat make him an invaluable asset. "England are a better team with Dawson in it," Vaughan stated emphatically on his podcast.
Why Dawson Deserves a Permanent Spot
Vaughan highlighted several reasons why Dawson should be a mainstay in England’s white-ball teams:
- Control Under Pressure: Dawson’s ability to bowl tight lines in the middle overs restricts scoring and builds pressure.
- Batting Depth: A capable lower-order hitter, Dawson adds balance to the side with his ability to finish innings.
- Experience in Big Matches: Having played in multiple global leagues, Dawson brings composure in high-stakes situations.
Vaughan pointed to Dawson’s performances in the 2023 Hundred, where he was instrumental in helping the Manchester Originals reach the final. "He’s not just a bowler; he’s a proper all-rounder who changes games," Vaughan added.
England’s Spin Conundrum
England’s spin department has been a topic of discussion since Adil Rashid’s dip in form and Moeen Ali’s reduced role. While younger spinners like Rehan Ahmed and Tom Hartley have shown promise, Vaughan believes Dawson’s consistency gives him the edge.
"You need someone who can hold an end up in ODIs and T20s, and Dawson does that better than most," Vaughan explained. "He’s not flashy, but he’s effective."
Recent Performances Back Vaughan’s Claim
Dawson’s recent outings support Vaughan’s argument. In the 2024 Pakistan Super League (PSL), he took 12 wickets at an economy of 7.2, proving his effectiveness in subcontinental conditions. His performances earned praise from coaches and analysts alike.
Former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq also weighed in, saying, "Dawson reads the game well. He’s not afraid to flight the ball, which is rare in modern white-ball cricket."
The Case for Experience
With England rebuilding after their disappointing 2023 ODI World Cup campaign, Vaughan stressed the importance of blending youth with experience. "You can’t just throw youngsters into every situation. Dawson provides stability," he said.
Dawson’s leadership qualities have also been noted, with Hampshire coach Adrian Birrell describing him as "a calming influence in the dressing room who helps younger players adapt."
What’s Next for Dawson?
Despite Vaughan’s endorsement, Dawson faces stiff competition. England’s selectors have shown a preference for leg-spinners, but with the T20 World Cup approaching, his case is growing stronger.
Vaughan concluded with a challenge to the selectors: "If England want to be the best, they need players like Dawson who can perform in all conditions. It’s time to give him a proper run."
As the debate continues, one thing is clear: Dawson’s contributions, both on and off the field, make him a compelling option for England’s future campaigns.