(AFP Photo)
England dominated the first Test against the West Indies at Lord’s on Wednesday, clinching an innings victory. Gus Atkinson stole the spotlight from his veteran teammate James Anderson, achieving a remarkable debut with a 12-wicket haul against the Windies.
Atkinson wasted no time in making an impact, dismissing Windies captain Kraigg Braithwaite with only his second delivery in Test cricket. The young quick bowler continued to build momentum throughout the match.
Born in London, making his Test debut at the historic Lord’s Cricket Ground couldn’t have been more special for Atkinson. His outstanding performance saw him claim seven wickets by the end of the first innings. The highlight came during the 35th over, where Atkinson dismantled the Caribbean batting lineup with three crucial wickets.
Standout figures by pacers on their Test debut:
– Bob Massie (AUS): 16/137 against ENG at Lord’s in 1972
– Fred Martin (ENG): 12/102 against AUS at The Oval in 1890
– Gus Atkinson (ENG): 12/106 against WI at Lord’s in 2024
Atkinson now ranks third in the list of best match-hauls for a debutant with his impressive figures of 12 wickets for 106 runs, following behind Bob Massie, who took 16 wickets, and Fred Martin, who recorded 12/102 during their own debut matches.
After his heroics in the first innings, many anticipated a strong response from Anderson, and the veteran did not disappoint. Despite it being his final game, the 41-year-old rolled back the years and demonstrated why he remains among the elite. Anderson secured three wickets, yet it was Atkinson who once again stole the spotlight.
Top debut match figures for England:
– John Ferris: 13/91 against SA at Cape Town in 1892
– Fred Martin: 12/102 against AUS at The Oval in 1890
– Gus Atkinson: 12/106 against WI at Lord’s in 2024
– Charles Marriot: 12/96 against WI at The Oval in 1933
– Alec Bedser: 11/145 against IND at Lord’s in 1946
Atkinson continues to etch his name in the record books with his remarkable debut performance, securing the third-best match figures by an Englishman in Test history.
On the third day, Atkinson maintained his dominance while Anderson pursued a milestone, aiming to surpass Shane Warne as the second-highest wicket-taker. However, Atkinson inadvertently stole the spotlight by claiming five crucial wickets, ultimately helping England seize the series lead.
