Shoaib Bashir is set to end an 11-month wait to return to the England Test team in the first match of the series against New Zealand. The 22-year-old is returning after a long absence following an injury sustained during England’s previous campaign. According to reports, Bashir last played for England after taking the match-winning wicket against India last July, when he had a broken finger. Since then, he has not featured for England in Tests. With his return now scheduled for the opener against New Zealand, England brings back a bowler who previously made an impact in a pivotal moment against India. The reports focus on the timing of his return and the length of his absence, rather than detailing any broader team changes or specific match conditions. Overall, the sources agree that Bashir’s comeback is the key development, marking his first appearance for England since the injury that sidelined him, and setting expectations for his role in England’s bowling attack during the opening Test against New Zealand.