Vaughan backs Lawrence for extended run in England team

Former captain Michael Vaughan believes Dan Lawrence has shown enough to remain in the England Test side when Jacob Bethell returns from injury.

Lawrence, a batter who bowls part-time off-spin, was a surprise choice when he was picked to fill the role created by the retirement of all-rounder Ben Stokes earlier this summer.

But after making 51 in the first Test at Headingley, Lawrence impressed with 50 not out from 66 balls in tricky conditions on day three of the second Test against Pakistan.

"I think it is a really good selection," Vaughan told BBC Test Match Special. "He will have a period in the England side that we will enjoy watching him bat.

"I think in time his off-spin will come in very handy indeed."

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Lawrence, 29, was recalled after an international absence of almost two years, having averaged 26.84 across 14 previous Tests including a stint as a makeshift opener.

By picking him, England prioritised having four pace bowling options over a frontline spinner, with Lawrence backed to provided the overs of slow bowling if needed. He has only bowled one over in the series so far with pace bowlers dominant.