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Gus Atkinson Back In England's Squad! ECB Calls Up Star Pacer Ahead Of Lord's Test

Soumyajit Dutta

Gus Atkinson back in England's squad [Source: @cricketcomau/X.com]Gus Atkinson back in England's squad [Source: @cricketcomau/X.com]

On the eve of Day 5 of the second Test against India, England made a significant move by adding fast bowler Gus Atkinson to their squad ahead of the upcoming third Test at Lord’s. The decision came swiftly just ahead of England’s heavy defeat at Edgbaston, as the selectors sought to bolster their pace attack ahead of a crucial encounter in the series.

Atkinson’s inclusion is seen as a response to both injury concerns and underwhelming performances among England’s seamers. With Brydon Carse nursing a toe issue and questions over the fitness of other pacers, Atkinson’s return provides England with a fresh and dynamic option as they look to bounce back at Lord’s.

Why Was Gus Atkinson Ruled Out Initially?

Gus Atkinson was ruled out of the first two Tests against India due to a right hamstring strain he suffered during England’s one-off Test against Zimbabwe in May. The injury forced him to miss not only the start of the India series but also the ODI series against the West Indies, as he underwent rehabilitation under the supervision of the England medical team. 

Atkinson had shown impressive form prior to his setback, and his recovery has been closely monitored with the aim of having him fit for the marquee series against India.

Atkinson Ready To Make His Mark

Now back in the squad, Gus Atkinson is set to make his mark once again. His Test career so far has been promising. In 12 matches, he has claimed 55 wickets at an average of 22.31, including three five-wicket hauls. 

Known for his extra pace and bounce, Atkinson’s ability to trouble top-order batters makes him a valuable asset, especially at Lord’s, where conditions often favour fast bowlers.

England's Updated Squad Against India

Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes

England’s Defeat at Edgbaston

England’s hopes of taking a series lead were dashed at Edgbaston, where they suffered a comprehensive 336-run defeat to India. 

Despite a strong start in the first innings, England’s batting faltered in the face of disciplined Indian bowling, and their bowlers struggled to contain India’s aggressive approach in both innings. Aiming to chase 608, England crumbled at 271 before the day's end at Edgbaston, as the series stands at 1-1.