ENG-W vs WI-W Match Preview

So far throughout the tournament, England Women have matched Australia Women in terms of consistency, winning all of their games. This is not going to be an easy game for Heather Knight's team, but after defeating South Africa Women earlier in the competition, they are used to facing tough opponents. West Indies Women have shown signs of having a talented squad capable of reaching the tournament's final four, and a victory in this game will force pundits to take a step back to look at them more closely.

ENG-W vs WI-W Match Details

England-W vs West Indies-W – 20th Match, Women's World Cup 2024

Venue: Sharjah Cricket Stadium, Sharjah

Date & Time: 13th October 2024 at 03:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

ENG-W vs WI-W Venue Stats

ENG-W vs WI-W Pitch Report

The pitch is small, and the outfield is extremely fast. There isn't much for bowlers to work with, and both quick bowlers and spinners have struggled on this track.

ENG-W vs WI-W Weather Report

It is going to be a warm evening, and we expect a batting-friendly wicket where fast bowlers will struggle. 

ENG-W vs WI-W Last Five Matches

ENG-W vs WI-W Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Women's T20 World Cup 2024, Video Highlights: South Africa keep hope alive of semi-final with a win over Bangladesh

ENG-W vs WI-W Probable Playing XIs:

West Indies-W Probable Playing XIs

Hayley Matthews (c), Stafanie Taylor, Shemaine Campbelle (wk), Deandra Dottin, Chinelle Henry, Qiana Joseph, Mandy Mangru, Ashmini Munisar, Aaliyah Alleyne, Afy Fletcher, Karishma Ramharack

England-W Probable Playing XIs

Maia Bouchier, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Sophia Dunkley, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Heather Knight (c), Amy Jones (wk), Danielle Gibson, Charlie Dean, Sarah Glenn, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Bell

Topmost Picks for ENG-W vs WI-W Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – England-W

• Danielle Wyatt – Danielle Wyatt was in good nick in her last appearance for England Women, scoring 43 runs. She has been a dependable opener for England for a while.
• Sophie Ecclestone – She was the top bowler for England Women in their last game against South Africa, picking up two wickets. She has also picked up 11 wickets from her last eight games and has also bowled economically.

Top Picks – West Indies-W

• Hayley Matthews –  Hayley Matthews has the ability to win the match single-handedly with either bat or ball.
• Afy Fletcher – Afy Fletcher will play a key role with her leg spin, especially on a track that is likely to assist spin. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for ENG-W vs WI-W Dream11 Team:

Shemaine Campbelle, Maia Bouchier, Danni Wyatt-Hodge(VC), Nat Sciver-Brunt, Hayley Matthews(C), Deandra Dottin, Chinelle Henry, Afy Fletcher, Karishma Ramharack, Charlie Dean, Sophie Ecclestone

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for ENG-W vs WI-W Dream11 Team:

Shemaine Campbelle, Maia Bouchier, Stafanie Taylor, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Nat Sciver-Brunt(C), Hayley Matthews, Deandra Dottin, Chinelle Henry, Karishma Ramharack(VC), Charlie Dean, Sophie Ecclestone

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Nat Sciver-Brunt, Hayley Matthews

Vice-captain – Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Karishma Ramharack

Wicketkeeper – Shemaine Campbelle

ENG-W vs WI-W Probable Winners:

West Indies Women are one of the tournament's most entertaining teams, but they frequently struggle against the best teams. We predict that this will be yet another of those cases, with England Women coming out on top once more. Considering the team combination, England-W is expected to win this match.

Edgbaston awaits. The series has been decided but WTC points are still up for grabs. West Indies sitting at the bottom of the table will know the significance and will be looking for ways to climb. They had a really poor second innings last Test to undo their hard work in the first innings, and the side will be looking to sustain on some good periods.

England are off to a decent start in the post Anderson era. Mark Wood bowled a few really testing spells, beating the edge multiple times while Chris Woakes reinstated himself as the senior pro. The batting has also been looking good and England are slowly making their way towards the Ashes.

ENG vs WI Match Details

Date: July 26th, 2024

Time:  3:30 PM IST

Venue: Edgbaston, Birmingham

ENG vs WI Weather Report

Pleasant weather with a few showers in the weekend are expected. The Test though should proceed without much interruptions.

ENG vs WI Pitch Report

The track has considerable grass cover but could get drier as the Test goes on. Batting second is likely to be better with batting expected to get easier.

ENG vs WI Head-to-Head

ENG vs WI Predicted Playing XI

ENG Playing XI

Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Mark Wood

WI Playing XI

Kraigg Brathwaite, Mikyle Louis, Kirk Mckenzie, Alick Athanaze, Kevam Hodge, Joshua De Silva, Jason Holder, Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie

See Also: Today’s Cricket Match Predictions – Cricket Winner

ENG vs WI Key Players

Gus Atkinson

Gus Atkinson had a really good debut, overshadowing the importance on Anderson’s retirement. He kept it simple, hit the right lengths and looks like a bowler to take care of for England.

Shamar Joseph

While one quick bows out another makes his way in. Shamar Joseph was phenomenal in Australia. He had Steve Smith under a lot of discomfort with his bowling and was the primary reason behind the Gabba win. He is at another iconic stadium and will be hoping to breach through it and run in happiness once more.

ENG vs WI Match Tips

England could be favorites with home advantage and a talented line-up.

Match Prediction: England Will Win The Match

England spinner Shoaib Bashir mimicked his country’s footballer, Cole Palmer, by performing the ‘cold’ celebration after dismissing Alick Athanaze on Day 4 of the 2nd Test against West Indies at Trent Bridge on Sunday, July 21. Shoaib Bashir has “shown the world what he can do” said England captain Ben Stokes.

Star performance by Shoaib Bashir

Shoaib Bashir was the standout performer for England in the second innings, claiming five wickets while conceding just 41 runs with an economy rate of 3.70 in 11.1 overs. His stellar performance helped England secure a commanding victory over the West Indies by 241 runs, clinching an unassailable 2-0 series lead with one match still to play.

Chasing a daunting target of 385 runs after dismissing England for 425, West Indies crumbled under the pressure of England’s formidable bowling attack. They were bowled out for a mere 143 in 36.1 overs. Shoaib Bashir played a pivotal role in this collapse, leaving the West Indies reeling at 82/5 after dismissing Alick Athanaze.

The key dismissal occurred in the 19th over of the West Indies’ run chase when Athanaze attempted to defend a delivery from Bashir. The ball took a sharp edge off Athanaze’s bat and was caught by Joe Root at slip. Overjoyed with his second wicket of the innings, Shoaib Bashir celebrated by rubbing both his arms, imitating Cole Palmer’s signature ‘cold’ celebration.

“I don’t think gratification comes out of an ‘I told you so’ moment or having a point to prove,” Stokes said in the moments after England’s win in Nottingham. “Because the decisions we make are all based around not only how far we think their talent can take them, but also that we think they’re good enough for international cricket straight away.

“This is the worst that they’ll be. And if you think you can identify talent and you can throw them into an international environment and give them the confidence, give them the backing that they’re going to progress really quickly. 

“I don’t want to say it’s an ‘I told you so’ kind of thing, but it sort of is,” he joked.

“Every time we came in for a break [at Lord’s], Baz was going ‘this is Bash if you haven’t met him already,” Stokes said. 

“He showed what he could do in India with conditions in his favour,” Stokes said. “But the pitch this week didn’t really offer much for spin…I think what he’s done today is showed the world what he can do.”

Bashir’s impressive bowling figures

In addition to Athanaze, Bashir dismissed Kirk McKenzie, Kavem Hodge, Jason Holder, and Shamar Joseph to complete his third five-wicket haul in Test cricket. His figures of 5/41 are his best bowling figures in a Test innings to date.

In the first innings, Bashir also made significant contributions by picking up two wickets, those of Mikyle Louis and Kirk McKenzie, finishing with figures of 2/108 in 25 overs.

See Also: Key takeaways from Gambhir’s first Press conference as India’s head coach: From backing Rohit and Virat to filling the shoes of Rahul Dravid – Cricket Winner

Shoaib Bashir’s exceptional performance and his celebratory mimicry of Cole Palmer added a memorable touch to England’s dominant victory over the West Indies.

Star West Indies fast bowler Shamar Joseph caused a big scene at Trent Bridge, Nottingham on Day 3 of the second Test against England. During the 107th over, Joseph took on England’s young fast bowler Gus Atkinson and hit two powerful shots that were crucial for his team.

Joseph first pulled a delivery from Atkinson over deep mid wicket for a six, then smashed another ball over deep backward square leg for another huge six. The second shot was so well timed that it sailed into the stands and hit the roof of one of the boxes, causing tiles to fall on the crowd below. Fortunately, no fans were injured.

Watch Shamar Joseph’s incredible six

Joseph scored a quick 33 off 27 balls, including five fours and two sixes. He partnered with Joshua Da Silva for the tenth wicket adding 71 runs off 78 balls. Their stand frustrated England as they easily scored against a tired bowling attack.

Their partnership ended just before lunch when Joseph hit a delivery from Mark Wood straight to Gus Atkinson at mid on. Da Silva was left not out on 82, missing a well deserved century as he walked back to the pavilion.

England claims early breakthroughs on day 3

West Indies started their innings at 351/5 with Jason Holder and Joshua Da Silva. England struck early when Chris Woakes caught Holder’s edge and Jamie Smith took the catch. Kevin Sinclair followed but was out after scoring 4, caught by Harry Brook.

Woakes continued his good work by dismissing Alzarri Joseph and Jayden Seales with back-to-back deliveries. West Indies was all out for 457, taking a narrow lead of 41 runs.

England are in the lead and they know look towards the future. They played their first home Tests without Broad or Anderson after 12 years. They still have a good amount of experience though with Mark Wood back and Chris Woakes kicking through well. The duo were the ones to change the flow of the game last year when they came back in the 3rd Test of the Ashes to draw the series.

West Indies has a tough way back though. They came back a few months ago to win at the Gabba but their bowling attack and batting line-up both remains inconsistent.

ENG vs WI Match Details

Date: July 18th, 2024

Time:  3:30 PM IST

Venue: Trent Bridge, Nottingham

ENG vs WI Weather Report

Pleasent weather with a few showers in the weekend are expected. The Test though should proceed without much interruptions.

ENG vs WI Pitch Report

The track has considerable grass cover but could get drier as the Test goes on. Batting second is likely to be better with batting expected to get easier.

ENG vs WI Head-to-Head

ENG vs WI Predicted Playing XI

ENG Playing XI

Ben Duckett, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Mark Wood

WI Playing XI

Kraigg Brathwaite, Mikyle Louis, Kirk Mckenzie, Alick Athanaze, Kevam Hodge, Joshua De Silva, Jason Holder, Jayden Seales, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie

See Also: Today’s Cricket Match Predictions – Cricket Winner

ENG vs WI Key Players

Gus Atkinson

Gus Atkinson had a really good debut, overshadowing the importance on Anderson’s retirement. He kept it simple, hit the right lengths and looks like a bowler to take care of for England.

Shamar Joseph

While one quick bows out another makes his way in. Shamar Joseph was phenomenal in Australia. He had Steve Smith under a lot of discomfort with his bowling and was the primary reason behind the Gabba win. He is at another iconic stadium and will be hoping to breach through it and run in happiness once more.

ENG vs WI Match Tips

England could be favorites with home advantage and a talented line-up.

Match Prediction: England Will Win The Match

England will look to build on their strong start to the test series when they face West Indies in the second test at Trent Bridge in Nottingham. After taking an emphatic 1-0 lead in the series, England will look to dominate the opposition once more. The West Indies appeared to offer very little in terms of quality against this impressive England team, which was able to give James Anderson a fitting sendoff among other positives. There were plenty of outstanding individual performances for England to build on, while the West Indies barely threatened throughout the two innings. The match would bring Zak Crawley, Jamie Smith, and Gus Atkinson back into the spotlight. The first test saw all three players perform exceptionally well. West Indies will be keen to avoid losing this match, which would result in them losing the entire series.

ENG vs WI Match Details

England vs West Indies – 2nd Test Match

Venue: Trent Bridge, Northern Ireland

Date & Time: 18th July 2024 at 03:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

ENG vs WI Venue Stats

ENG vs WI Pitch Report

The pitch has even pace and bounce and good carry for the bowlers. A score of around 400 can be posted by the team batting first if they bat well.

ENG vs WI Weather Report

The conditions are expected to be very similar to what we saw in the first two games, with sunshine throughout and temperatures in the mid-twenties from start to finish.

ENG vs WI Last Five Matches

ENG vs WI Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Trent Boult confirms retirement from T20 World Cup following New Zealand’s group stage exit

ENG vs WI Probable Playing XIs:

West Indies Probable Playing XIs

Kraigg Brathwaite (c), Mikyle Louis, Kirk McKenzie, Alick Athanaze, Kavem Hodge, Jason Holder, Joshua Da Silva, Alzarri Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales

England Probable Playing XIs

Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith, Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, James Anderson

Topmost Picks for ENG vs WI Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – England

• Joe Root – The English superstar resorted to the traditional style of Test batting and scored 320 runs in last Test series against India. Root has the form with him and will again be a good choice for the game.
• Ben Stokes – The experienced all-rounder has impressed with his captaincy and took three wickets in England’s victory.

Top Picks – West Indies

• Kraigg Brathwaite – West Indies will bank on Kraigg Brathwaite for a majority of their runs.
• Alzarri Joseph – A right-arm fast bowler, Alzarri Joseph is an extremely talented bowler and a crucial member of his team. The pitch behaviour in the first match will give him an extra advantage, Joseph will be a game-changing pick for the match.

ENG vs WI Probable Winners:

The West Indies failed to put up much of an effort in the first test match. The heavy defeat is likely to aid the team’s recovery, and the second test will be much more competitive. England’s batsmen will be eager to put on a better performance, and their strength will most likely help England win. Considering the team combination, England is expected to win this match.

ECB announces the addition of Mark Wood to their squad for the second Test against the West Indies at Trent Bridge. This move comes in the wake of Jimmy Anderson’s retirement, opening up a crucial spot in England’s bowling lineup. As England looks to secure a series win, Wood’s inclusion brings both excitement and strategic advantage to the team.

Jimmy Anderson’s retirement

The retirement of Jimmy Anderson, one of the greatest fast bowlers in cricket history, marks the end of an era for England. Anderson’s departure leaves a significant void in the team, both in terms of skill and experience. His remarkable career, spanning over two decades, saw him become the highest wicket-taker among fast bowlers in Test cricket, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire generations.

See Also: Watch: 34 off last over! Waite helps Worcestershire beat Birmingham with a record cameo followed by 4-wicket haul

The Second test at Trent Bridge

The second Test at Trent Bridge holds immense importance for England as they aim to clinch the series against the West Indies. With Anderson’s retirement, England’s bowling lineup for the second Test features a mix of seasoned campaigners and promising talents.

The competition for the vacant seamer spot includes Mark Wood, Matt Potts, and Dillon Pennington, each bringing unique strengths to the table.

Mark Wood’s recent form

Mark Wood’s recent form has been impressive, showcasing his ability to bowl at high speeds consistently. His performances in the recent series have demonstrated his match-winning potential, making him a strong contender for the seamer spot.

Matt Potts, Wood’s county teammate, and Dillon Pennington from Nottinghamshire are also vying for the seamer spot. Potts has shown considerable promise with his ability to swing the ball both ways, while Pennington, though uncapped, has been in stellar form at the county level.

Gus Atkinson’s debut performance

Gus Atkinson’s debut in the opening Test was nothing short of spectacular, taking 12 wickets and making an indelible mark. Given his performance, Atkinson is likely to retain his place, providing a formidable option in England’s bowling arsenal. His ability to generate pace and movement will be vital in the upcoming match.

England’s spin option

Shoaib Bashir, the spinner in the squad, had a quiet first Test where he did not get an opportunity to bowl. The success of England’s seam attack at Lord’s raises questions about the need for a spinner in the second Test. However, Bashir’s role cannot be discounted, especially if the pitch offers turn or if the conditions change.

West Indies’ performance in first test

The West Indies faced a heavy defeat in the first Test, losing by an innings and 114 runs. Despite the loss, they have several key players who could pose a challenge to England. The team’s performance in the second Test will be critical as they look to bounce back and keep the series alive.

England men’s Test squad:

Ben Stokes (Durham, c), Gus Atkinson (Surrey), Shoaib Bashir (Somerset), Harry Brook (Yorkshire), Zak Crawley (Kent), Ben Duckett (Nottinghamshire), Dan Lawrence (Surrey), Dillon Pennington (Nottinghamshire), Ollie Pope (Surrey), Matthew Potts (Durham), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Jamie Smith (Surrey), Chris Woakes (Warwickshire), Mark Wood (Durham).

Test Series Versus West Indies

1st Test: England v West Indies, 10-14 July 2024, Lord’s Cricket Ground, London – England won by an innings and 114 runs

2nd Test: England v West Indies, 18-22 July 2024, Trent Bridge, Nottingham

3rd Test: England v West Indies, 26-30 July 2024, Edgbaston, Birmingham

James Anderson, the legendary England fast bowler, bid farewell to international cricket on Friday, July 12, 2024, after his side thrashed West Indies in the first Test match at Lord’s. Playing in his 188th Test match, Anderson retired as the most successful pace bowler in the history of Test cricket with 704 wickets, just four shy of second-placed Shane Warne.

The cricketing world paid tribute to Anderson’s remarkable career, with wishes pouring in from all corners, including a heartfelt message from the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Career highlights

James Anderson’s career is adorned with numerous milestones and records that speak volumes about his skill and longevity. He debuted in 2003 and played 188 Tests, amassing 704 wickets. Anderson holds the record for the most wickets by a fast bowler in Test cricket, surpassing legends like Glenn McGrath and Wasim Akram.

See Also: Replacing Jadeja in T20Is? India star shares honest thoughts

The final test match

In his final Test match, England dominated the West Indies, winning by an innings and 114 runs. Anderson played a crucial role, taking four wickets, including a three-wicket haul in the first innings. Despite the stellar debut performance of Gus Atkinson, who picked up 12 wickets, Anderson’s presence on the field was significant, leading his team one last time.

Tributes and farewell

The cricketing community showered Anderson with tributes on social media. Fellow cricketers, former teammates, and fans expressed their admiration and gratitude for his contributions to the game. The respect and love for Anderson were evident, highlighting his impact on cricket.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Tribute

Among the many tributes, Sachin Tendulkar’s message stood out. Tendulkar, an old foe and one of the greatest batter Anderson has bowled against, wrote a heartfelt note on his ‘X’ account. He praised Anderson’s action, speed, accuracy, swing, and fitness, acknowledging the inspiration Anderson has been for generations. Tendulkar wished Anderson a wonderful life with his family, away from the rigors of professional cricket.

Anderson’s impact on Cricket

James Anderson has left an indelible mark on cricket. His exceptional skill and dedication have inspired countless young cricketers. Anderson’s contributions to England’s success, including multiple Ashes victories, have made him a beloved figure in English cricket.

James Anderson’s retirement marks the end of an era for English cricket. His career, filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments, stands as a testament to his greatness. As he bows out, the cricketing world celebrates his contributions and looks forward to seeing the impact of his legacy on future generations.

James Anderson, the legendary English fast bowler, ended his illustrious career with 705 Test wickets after bowling 40,031 legal deliveries, the most by a fast bowler in the history of cricket. Although Anderson missed a fairy tale farewell similar to his former bowling partner Stuart Broad, his final Test match was a testament to his enduring class and remarkable career.

James Anderson’s legendary career

James Anderson’s career is filled with numerous highlights and milestones that have cemented his place as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time. Making his debut in 2003, Anderson played 188 Tests over 19 years, consistently delivering match-winning performances. He holds the record for the most wickets, most deliveries, and most matches by a fast bowler, showcasing his longevity and endurance in a demanding role.

See Also: Brian Lara names these two Indian stars who can break his famous 400-run record in Test

The final test match

In his final Test match against the West Indies, England hammered the visitors by an innings and 114 runs, bowling them out for 136 in the second innings. The match lasted only two days and a session, with Anderson taking four wickets, including a three-wicket haul. Despite a stellar debut performance by Gus Atkinson, who picked up 12 wickets, it was Anderson who led the team off the ground to a standing ovation from the Lord’s crowd.

Missed fairy-tale farewell

Anderson’s retirement came shortly after Stuart Broad announced his departure from all forms of cricket. Broad fittingly took a wicket with the final ball he bowled to win the Test for England. Anderson, however, missed out on this iconic moment. In his last over, Anderson bowled to Motie, who was beaten on the flick with a short-of-length delivery. An appeal for LBW was half-hearted and dismissed due to the height and angle down leg.

Anderson’s Last Over

In the 44th over of the West Indies’ second innings, Anderson had the chance to end his career on a high note with a wicket. However, he dropped a straightforward return catch, a rare lapse in an otherwise impeccable career. The crowd remained supportive, appreciating Anderson’s contributions over the years.

England’s dominant victory

England’s comprehensive victory was marked by Gus Atkinson’s remarkable debut. The 26-year-old pacer picked up seven wickets in the first innings and five in the second, overshadowing Anderson’s farewell performance. Nonetheless, Anderson’s presence and leadership on the field were evident as he guided the young bowler.

Anderson’s emotional send-off

The Lord’s crowd gave Anderson a fitting send-off, rising to their feet to applaud his efforts. Anderson received a guard of honour from his teammates at the start of the day’s play, an emotional moment that he handled with grace. His composure and humility were on full display as he bowed out of international cricket.

Career statistics

James Anderson’s career statistics are a testament to his greatness. With 705 wickets in 188 Tests, he stands as the highest wicket-taking fast bowler in history. His tally of 40,031 deliveries is a record for fast bowlers, reflecting his consistency and endurance.

James Anderson in Test cricket
Mats: 188
Wkts: 704
Avg: 26.45
SR: 56.8
ER: 2.79
BBI: 7/42
BBM: 11/71
5-fer: 32
10-fer: 3

Gus Atkinson’s remarkable debut

Gus Atkinson’s debut performance was a highlight of Anderson’s farewell match. The young pacer’s 12-wicket haul showcased his potential and hinted at a bright future for England’s bowling attack. Anderson’s mentorship and guidance were evident as he partnered with Atkinson on the field.

Gus Atkinson’s two 5-fers in the match is the first time for an England bowler on debut since 1934 and the first by a pacer since 1972 when Bob Massie (AUS) took against England at Lord’s.

Cricket enthusiasts around the globe were left in awe as James Anderson, the legendary English fast bowler, took to the field for what might be his final Test match against the West Indies. A career that spanned nearly two decades, marked by remarkable consistency and unparalleled skill, was celebrated with a performance that reminded everyone why Anderson is considered one of the greatest bowlers in the history of the sport.

The Final Test: England vs. West Indies

As England took on the West Indies in what was expected to be Anderson’s swansong, the match carried a significant emotional weight. England’s batter set a solid foundation with a 250-run lead in the first innings, providing Anderson with the perfect stage to showcase his skills one last time.

See Also: Gambhir nominates Morne Morkel for India’s Bowling Coach; BCCI’s final call pending

Anderson’s magic on Day 2

With England in a commanding position, Anderson opened the bowling on Day 2, determined to make a lasting impact. His first major strike came when he dismissed West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite with a superb inswinger. This was a vintage Anderson delivery, one that left the batter completely flummoxed and reaffirmed Anderson’s mastery over swing bowling.

The Art of swing bowling

Anderson’s ability to swing the ball, both conventionally and reverse, has been a cornerstone of his success. His inswinger to Brathwaite was a perfect example of his skill – the ball dipped low and swung back sharply, deceiving the batter and hitting the stumps.

Second Spell: Anderson’s 703rd wicket

Later in the day, Anderson returned to claim his 703rd Test wicket by dismissing Alick Athanaze. This dismissal further dented the West Indies’ hopes and showcased Anderson’s relentless pursuit of excellence. By the end of Day 2, the West Indies were reeling at 79/6, staring at an innings defeat.

A Star is Born: Atkinson’s debut

While Anderson prepared to bid farewell, another pacer made headlines. Gus Atkinson, a 26-year-old debutant, announced his arrival on the Test stage with a sensational performance. Atkinson’s seven-wicket haul in the first innings of the match was a glimpse into England’s future in fast bowling.

Atkinson’s debut could not have been more impressive. His ability to generate pace and movement troubled the West Indies batters, drawing comparisons with some of the great fast bowlers of the past. His performance ensured that even as Anderson’s career drew to a close, England’s bowling attack remained in capable hands.

A farewell to remember

The atmosphere on Anderson’s last day was charged with emotion. Teammates, opponents, and fans paid tribute to a player who has given so much to the game. Anderson’s farewell was a fitting end to a career that has been characterized by professionalism, passion, and a relentless drive to succeed.