Gus Atkinson scripted history by becoming only the second England cricketer after Sir Ian Botham to accomplish a Test ton and a ten-wicket match haul at Lord’s in the same season. His marathon knock ensured England posted a challenging first innings total, a position they consolidated with two quick strikes before Lunch.
Resuming at his overnight score of 74, the England No.8 picked up from where he left. Although the hosts only batted for about an hour in the morning session but thanks to a sprightly Atkinson they piled on 69 runs in 14 overs. As the milestone approached near, Atkinson showed some signs of nerves but he eventually breezed past the landmark with gusto. He finally perished to a lethargic stroke but not before putting England in the driver’s seat.
The smile from Gus Atkinson says it all 😁 pic.twitter.com/gn7eQDvi0S
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 30, 2024
The visitors lacked consistency with the ball, particularly after Tea on Day 1 and their profligacy coupled with Joe Root’s ton and Atkinson’s freak show allowed England to move into the ascendancy.
Brief scores: England 427 (Joe Root 143, Gus Atkinson 118, Asitha Fernando 5-102) lead Sri Lanka 32/2 (Olly Stone 1-3, Chris Woakes 1-14) by 395 runs.
