The stage was set for James Anderson’s farewell, but Gus Atkinson stole the spotlight with a dazzling display of fast bowling. The debutant paceman ripped through the West Indies batting order, claiming a career-best 7-45 to propel England to a commanding position on day one of the first Test.
Relegating Anderson to a spectator’s role, Atkinson, playing in his maiden Test, emerged as the unlikely hero. England, electing to field under overcast conditions, bundled out the Windies for a paltry 121, with the 26-year-old quick showcasing raw pace and nagging accuracy to record the best figures by an England debutant in nearly three decades.
The West Indies’ well-documented struggles at the top of the order were laid bare once again. Atkinson’s introduction in the 11th over proved to be a turning point, as he dismissed Kraigg Brathwaite with just his second delivery in Test cricket.
The onslaught continued after lunch, with Atkinson conjuring up a magical spell, taking three wickets in a single over – a feat not achieved by an England bowler since Stuart Broad in 2011. The prized scalp of West Indies captain Jason Holder further cemented his dominance.
While Anderson received a fitting send-off before the start of play, it was Atkinson’s name that dominated post-match discussions. Captain Ben Stokes expressed his elation with the youngster’s performance, praising his ability to extract movement and maintain control throughout his spell.
Openers Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope capitalized on the exceptional bowling display, stitching together a crucial 94-run partnership for the second wicket.
Crawley survived a close run-out call early on, while Pope successfully overturned an lbw decision, showcasing their determination at the crease. Despite a few hiccups later in the day, with both falling in quick succession, Joe Root and Harry Brook ensured England ended the day at a commanding 189-3, extending their lead to 68.
This Test series marks a new dawn for England under the leadership of Stokes and Brendon McCullum. With the Ashes in Australia on the horizon next winter, they are actively building a new-look team, one brimming with hunger and promise.
The emphatic win on day one is a resounding start to their journey, with Atkinson’s fiery spell providing a glimpse of an exciting future for English fast bowling.
