Debutant Gus Atkinson delivered a sensational performance on Day 1, setting the stage for a thrilling encounter against the West Indies in the London Test. This match was particularly special as it marked the final appearance of legendary pacer James Anderson.

On day 2, Gudakesh Motie removed the England captain Ben Stokes (4) with a sharp-turning delivery in his first over of the day. The left-arm spinner bowling over the wicket landed it outside Stokes’ off-stump before it took the middle stump out of the ground.

Ben Stokes’ Astonishing Dismissal by Gudakesh Motie

Off the final ball of the 55th over, Gudakesh Motie delivered a ball that drifted slightly away from Stokes. Tempted into a booming cover drive, Stokes was undone as the ball spun viciously off the footmarks to knock his middle stump out. Stokes’ astonished reaction highlighted the brilliance of Motie’s delivery, earning the bowler well-deserved applause.

Good ball by Motie to dismiss Stokes! #ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/KIuroRvuDA

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Day 1 highlights

England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and elected to bowl first, a decision influenced by the overcast conditions and a pitch that promised assistance to the bowlers. This choice soon proved to be a masterstroke.

Gus Atkinson’s remarkable debut

The spotlight quickly shifted to Gus Atkinson, who made an unforgettable debut by taking 7-45. His performance was the second-best by an Englishman on debut, highlighting his immense potential and skill. Atkinson’s lethal pace and precision dismantled the West Indies batting line-up, reducing them to a paltry 121.

West Indies’ first innings collapse

The West Indies struggled to find any rhythm against the English bowlers. Atkinson’s spell was particularly destructive, as he ripped through their top and middle order, leaving them reeling. His exceptional performance overshadowed even the experienced bowlers in the squad, showcasing the depth of England’s bowling arsenal.

England’s batting response

England’s openers took to the crease with confidence, determined to build a substantial lead. Zak Crawley led the charge with a commanding 76, displaying a mix of aggression and composure.

Zak Crawley’s top score

Crawley’s innings was the backbone of England’s batting effort on Day 1. His ability to dominate the bowlers and find gaps in the field kept the scoreboard ticking and put England in a strong position.

By the end of Day 1, England had reached 189-3 in 40 overs, securing a lead of 68 runs. This solid start laid the foundation for a potentially match-winning first innings total.

Day 2 developments

Harry Brook and Joe Root resumed batting on Day 2, aiming to extend England’s lead. Both batsmen looked settled, and the partnership promised to take the game further away from the West Indies.

Brook’s dismissal by Alzarri Joseph

However, Brook was the first to fall on Day 2, succumbing to a bouncer from Alzarri Joseph. His attempted pull shot ended up as a top-edge to wicket-keeper Joshua da Silva, bringing captain Ben Stokes to the crease.