Concern over Rashid niggle gives Dawson his big chance

LIAM DAWSON has an injury being carried by key spinner Adil Rashid to thank for his place in England’s World Cup squad.

The Hampshire left-armer has not played for England since October but a minor concern over Rashid helped him get the nod over Joe Denly.

National selector Ed Smith said: ‘First of all, it’s a balance decision, it could go either way but secondly, Adil Rashid has a little shoulder niggle.

‘He’ll be fine, we hope he’ll play a full and complete part in the tournament, but it’s a factor in the Liam Dawson decision.

‘The strategic priority is if one of those two main spinners is injured or if there’s a problem, we’ve got someone whose primary focus in his professional career has been his bowling.’

Denly, named in the provisional squad as utility

We’ve gone for someone whose primary focus has been his bowling

batting cover and back-up leg-spinner, later tweeted: ‘Obviously disappointed ... but wish the boys every bit of success.’

Dawson and James Vince, his captain at Hampshire, will now miss their county’s One-Day Cup final after being named in the England squad.

Left-arm paceman David Willey was also left out, despite being a mainstay in the squad for the four years, the victim of fast bowler Jofra Archer’s eligibility and impressive first appearances.

He tweeted: ‘What can I say, I’m absolutely gutted. Still 100% behind the lads. On a positive..... still winning at life!!’

Smith paid tribute to Willey’s stoic reaction, saying: ‘I spoke to David, he’s an outstanding man.

‘He’s very honest, dignified. He’s a very impressive man and cricketer. The new-ball area is strong and David was unfortunate. He could easily have been in the World Cup squad, he deserved to be in.’