England's newest pace bowling star, Gus Atkinson, stole the limelight on the Day 1 of James Anderson's farewell Test in the series opener against West Indies on July 10. The 26-year-old debutant ripped through the West Indies batting line-up, claiming a stunning seven wickets, as the visitors crumbled for a meager 121 all out at Lord's on Wednesday. While the day was intended to celebrate the illustrious career of England's record wicket-taker, Atkinson emerged as the unexpected hero. Despite Anderson's presence in the bowling attack, it was Atkinson who delivered the decisive blows, leaving the Windies in tatters. England capitalised on the strong bowling performance, reaching 189/3 by the close of play. This puts them in a commanding position with a healthy lead of 68 runs heading into the second day.
Atkinson steals the show on Anderson's farewell as England take control
In a day filled with emotions surrounding James Anderson's final Test, a new hero emerged for England. Debutant Gus Atkinson ripped through the West Indies batting order, claiming a magnificent seven wickets for just 45 runs. This dominant bowling performance saw the Windies rolled over for a paltry 121. While the series opener marked Anderson's 188th and final Test, it was Atkinson who stole the headlines. This impressive showing strengthens England's management's vision of building a team to reclaim the Ashes in Australia later this year, and Atkinson could very well be a key player in that mission. Despite a warm welcome from the Lord's crowd, the usually reliable Anderson, 41, couldn't overshadow Atkinson's stellar debut. The young Surrey seamer joined an elite group, becoming the eighth England bowler and the second this year (after spinner Tom Hartley) to achieve the feat of seven wickets on Test debut. England topped their brilliant bowling with impressive batting, ending the day at a commanding position of 189/3, with a lead of 68 runs. Openers Ollie Pope (57) and Zak Crawley (76) stitched together a crucial 94-run partnership before bad light intervened. However, with sunshine expected for day two, England look poised to extend their dominance.
England bowlers break West Indies batters' back
Earlier, The first day of James Anderson's farewell Test was tinged with both celebration and anticipation. While the occasion paid homage to England's record wicket-taker, a new face emerged to steal the spotlight. The pre-match preparations were a testament to Anderson's illustrious career. His daughters rang the bell, video highlights played on the big screen, and commemorative merchandise filled the club shop. Captain Ben Stokes, adhering to tradition, won the toss and opted to bowl under overcast conditions.
However, the veteran bowler couldn't provide the fans with the dream start they craved. Enter Gus Atkinson, the debutant carrying the hopes of England's future. After 10 quiet overs from Anderson and Chris Woakes, Atkinson stepped up. His second delivery in Test cricket proved magical, inducing Kraigg Brathwaite to chop the ball onto his own stumps.
The 26-year-old seamer wasted no time in adding another wicket. He deceived Kirk McKenzie with a classic delivery, resulting in a thick edge that flew straight to Zak Crawley at slip. Atkinson finished his spell with figures of 2-2, conceding his first run only in his fourth over. The spotlight then shifted to Ben Stokes, finally back in action after knee surgery. The skipper quickly made his mark, dismissing opener Mikyle Louis who nicked a delivery to Harry Brook, who took a sensational one-handed catch diving low. James Anderson, longing to contribute with a wicket, did get another spell before lunch. However, luck wasn't on his side, with Kavem Hodge surviving a close call as the ball edged past the leg stump. Anderson finished the session wicketless, but the stage was set for a day of intriguing cricket, marked by a changing of the guard in England's bowling attack.
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