Despite a late stumble on day one of the third Test against the West Indies, England is still confident of achieving a significant total at Edgbaston. This optimism comes after Chris Woakes acknowledged that openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett were dismissed after playing aggressive shots that didn’t quite pan out.
By the end of the day, England found themselves at 38-3 in response to the West Indies’ 282, with nightwatchman Mark Wood also back in the pavilion. Woakes, however, believes England’s middle order has the potential to turn the game around on a pitch that remains favorable for batting. Joe Root and Ollie Pope will resume the innings on Saturday, unbeaten on two and six, respectively.
“We would have preferred to end the day with just one wicket down, but credit to the West Indies for taking three wickets in what can be a tricky period,” said Woakes, who is familiar with the Edgbaston pitch as a Warwickshire player.
He continued, “Our openers always try to take the positive option and put pressure on the bowlers. It’s a strategy that doesn’t always work, but this surface still looks good for batting. With two top players at the crease and a strong middle order, we’re hopeful for some big partnerships and a high total.”
Atkinson: A Rising Star
Although England faced setbacks with the bat, fast bowler Gus Atkinson delivered a remarkable performance, taking four wickets. The 26-year-old was just one wicket short of achieving three five-wicket hauls in his first five Test innings, a feat accomplished by only three other England players since World War One.
Atkinson has already claimed 20 wickets in Test cricket, with only six players surpassing that in their first three matches. Should he secure five wickets in the second innings, he will top that list.
Atkinson’s delivery to dismiss Gudakesh Motie was particularly eye-catching, drawing praise from former England fast bowler Steven Finn. “That delivery is what I really love about Gus Atkinson – his ability to surprise,” Finn commented on BBC Test Match Special. “Even against lower-order players, the bounce and steepness he can generate make him a special prospect.”
Woakes commended Atkinson’s seamless transition into Test cricket, saying he has “made it look quite easy” with his quick adaptation and skillful bowling. “He’s bowled really well since coming into the team at Lord’s and earned his rewards. He’s managed to perform on back-to-back flat wickets,” Woakes noted.
“He possesses the ability to swing the ball and execute a good wobble seam, providing a great variation. Plus, his pace allows him to use the short-ball strategy effectively. He’s shown that he’s a well-rounded bowler and has had an impressive start to his Test career.”
Credit: BBC Sport
