England vs India: Liam Dawson makes hosts a better side – Michael Vaughan

Dawson took seven wickets in three Tests in his first spell in international cricket between December 2016 and July 2017.

In his time away he has become the leading spinner in county cricket – he was last year’s Professional Cricket Association men’s player of the year – and a regular on the global T20 franchise circuit.

After leaving him out of the tour to India last year – the tour on which Bashir made his England debut despite having only six first-class matches to his name – England’s managing director Rob Key said Dawson was “probably not someone who wants to go around India as the 15th or 16th man”.

Speaking on Wednesday, Dawson said he has never turned down a Test tour, although he did fulfill a contract in the 2023 Pakistan Super League rather than travel to Bangladesh for a white-ball series.

“I think the age I’ve got to, if I’m honest, I didn’t think I’d play again, it’s not something that I’d worry about,” he said.

“I just tried to enjoy my cricket which I’ve made pretty clear. It’s cool to be back involved, I’ve got to try and enjoy each day I’m involved and playing for England.

“I knew what to expect coming into it for a second time so that helped.

“Of course I was nervous but nerves are a good thing. The older you get and the more you play, you learn how to manage those nerves.”