Considering Recall of Archer and Atkinson Following Hefty Defeat by India
In the midst of a five-match Test series against India, England is making strategic adjustments to its bowling lineup for the upcoming Lord's Test. The key addition to the squad is the inclusion of Gus Atkinson, a 27-year-old pace seamer who has recovered from a hamstring injury and is eager to make his mark at Lord's following an impressive debut last year.
Atkinson, who boasts an impressive Test record with 55 wickets from 12 matches at an average of 22.30, is set to join forces with potential Test comeback kid Jofra Archer, who has been training with the squad after a four-year injury layoff. Archer, known for his pace and skill, is under consideration for a return to the Test arena.
England's current bowling options for the Lord's Test include Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, and Chris Woakes, all of whom have bowled extensively in the first two Tests. With a heavy workload and tight turnaround, England is expected to rotate or rest some bowlers to maintain freshness.
Shubman Gill of India has been a standout performer in the series so far, scoring an outstanding 269 runs in the second Test and an additional 161 runs in the second innings at Edgbaston. His impressive run-spree presents a significant challenge for England's bowlers in the upcoming matches.
Ben Stokes, the England all-rounder, has acknowledged Gill's exceptional performance and emphasised the need for England to give credit where it's due. Stokes also expressed his disappointment with England's inability to bowl out India despite a good start, allowing India to score a big first innings total.
Meanwhile, Akash Deep, playing in place of Jasprit Bumrah, took a career-best match haul of 10-147 at Edgbaston, earning praise from Stokes for his ability to expose a crack and change his angles on the crease.
As it stands, India and England are tied 1-1 in the series, with Gill becoming the first batsman in 148 years of Test history to score a double century and a 150 in the same match. The upcoming Lord's Test promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams strive for victory.
Gus Atkinson, with his impressive Test record, will join forces with Jofra Archer, who is under consideration for a Test return, in England's sports squad for the Lord's Test. Shubman Gill's exceptional performances present a significant challenge for England's bowlers, especially in the upcoming Lord's Test.
