From Chingford to Old Trafford: Dan Lawrence's Test Return

Dan Lawrence, England's newest Test opener, steps back into the international arena at Old Trafford on Wednesday, marking his return after a two-year absence from the five-day format. His journey, however, began long before the bright lights of Test cricket.

Barry Hyam, who has witnessed Lawrence's development from a cricket-obsessed under-11 on the Essex age-group pathway, recalls his early days. "At a young age, you see the batting talent and skill, but who will make it is unclear," Hyam says. "It's the dedication and application that truly reveals the potential."

Lawrence's journey was marked by a quiet confidence. "He had a deep belief in his ability," Hyam explains. "It wasn't arrogance; it was a quiet self-assurance. He believed he could adapt to any situation."

This confidence was evident early on. At 17, Lawrence smashed a century in his second first-class match, scoring 161 against Surrey at The Oval, becoming the third-youngest player to achieve this feat in the County Championship. He later showcased his fearless spirit by striking five consecutive sixes off Shoaib Bashir in a Championship match.

Now, Lawrence faces a new challenge as he opens the batting against Sri Lanka. This opportunity has emerged due to Zak Crawley's finger injury and England's eagerness to integrate the Bazball-minded Lawrence into their squad.

"I haven't opened for a while," Lawrence admits, "but I'm excited to go out there with Ducky [Ben Duckett] and hopefully put on a show."

Hyam, now Essex Academy Director and second-team head coach, has seen Lawrence's career evolve closely. He believes Lawrence's adaptability will be key in his new role. "We encouraged him to open in the second team, exposing him to the best bowlers and the new ball," Hyam explains. "When he joined the Essex team, Alastair Cook and Nick Browne were in those positions, so that opportunity wasn't available."

Lawrence's move to Surrey in 2023 was met with disappointment from Essex fans, but he left with a final flourish, scoring three centuries, including a spectacular innings against Lancashire that sent spectators scrambling for safety.

The move has proved beneficial for both parties. Essex are pleased with his replacement, Jordan Cox, while Lawrence has added firepower to Surrey's already formidable lineup, averaging over 50 in the Championship and proving his worth with both bat and ball.

His off-spin bowling, while unorthodox, has become a potent weapon. "It feels normal to me," Lawrence says. "But watching it back can be tough, but the delivery is generally good, and that's all I focus on."

Hyam acknowledges his bowling development, "He always fancied himself as a good bowler," he says. "Despite his unusual action, he generates a lot of spin and shape. In recent years, he has added consistency."

Lawrence's batting has also matured. "He has had to adapt his technique slightly," Hyam reveals. "He is more still, more balanced, and reaps the rewards."

Hyam, along with many others, will be watching closely as Lawrence returns to the Test arena. "Anyone who knows Dan knows he comes from a good place, a caring and considerate young man." He is also a talented one, ready to prove himself once more on the international stage.

*This is an extract from the Guardian's weekly cricket email, The Spin. To subscribe, visit this page and follow the instructions.