In a commanding performance, England secured a decisive 10-wicket victory against the West Indies in the third Test match at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Sunday, July 28. Mark Wood delivered an outstanding performance, taking a brilliant five-wicket haul in his 14-over spell and conceding just 40 runs at an economy rate of 2.90. Gus Atkinson was a standout throughout the series, claiming 22 wickets at an average of 16.22 and an economy rate of 4.01, earning him the Player of the Series title alongside Jayden Seales. Seales, the 22-year-old fast bowler, made a si??gnificant impact by taking 13 wickets over the three matches.

This victory not only whitewashed the West Indies but also significantly improved their standing in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25 rankings.

England’s rise in WTC rankings following the series win against West Indies

Before the beginning of the West Indies tour of England 2024, the hosts were languishing in ninth place on the WTC table. However, their clinical performance against the Caribbean team has propelled them up three spots to sixth place, with 36.54 percentage points. This substantial jump in the standings underscores the importance of their emphatic win and the West Indies’ lacklustre performance.

West Indies drop to ninth position 

Conversely, the West Indies, who entered the series in sixth place, have faced a significant setback. Their bowlers’ struggles were evident throughout the series, particularly in the third Test. This series of poor performances has resulted in a three-place drop for the Caribbean team, who now find themselves in ninth position with 19.05 percentage points.

Also READ: Mark Wood??, Ben Stokes propel England?? to a 3-0 series sweep with dominant 10-wicket win against West Indies at Edgbaston

India’s supremacy and forthcoming challenges in the WTC 

India continues to dominate the WTC standings, sitting comfortably at the top with 74 points and a winning percentage of 68.52%. Having played nine matches, India have secure??d victories in six, reinforcing their consistent performance and strong po?sition as they aim for a spot in the WTC final in June 2025. Despite being finalists in both previous editions, India narrowly missed out on the title.

India’s cricketing calendar is packed with crucial Test matches as they gear up to solidify their lead. They are set to play 10 Tests, beginning with a two-match series against Bangladesh in September 2024. This will be followed by a three-match series against New Zealand in October 2024. The highlight of India’s schedule is a highly anticipated five-match series against former WTC champions Australia, spanning from November 2024 to January 2025.

Intensifying battle for second spot in the WTC points table 

The competition for a place in the World Test Championshi?p final is heating up, with Australia and New Zealand in a close contest for the second spot behind India. Sri Lanka are also in contention, making the race even more thrilling as the tournament progresses.

Australia (2nd, Win %: 68.52): The Australians have been in impressive form, securi??ng four wins in their last five matches. They aim to keep this momentum and challenge India for the top position.

New Zealand (3rd, Win %: 50.00):?? The Black Caps have a balanced record with three wins and three losses in their l??ast six matches. Their upcoming performance against India will be crucial in determining their final standing.

Sri Lanka (4th, Win %: 50.00): Sri La??nka have shown promise with two wins in their last four ??matches. They need to continue their winning streak to move up the table.

Also READ: Ian Chappell names key E???ngland players who could trouble Australia in the 2025-26 Ashes series

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In a whirlwind display of batting prowess, Ben Stokes etched his name into the history books by registering the fastest Test fifty for England in a clinical 10-wicket win over West Indies in the final match ?of the series. This victory sealed a comprehensive 3-0 whitewash for the hosts??.

Ben Stokes on a rampage

Stokes, promoted to open the innings, unleashed a brutal assault on the West In??dian bowlers, racing to his half-century in ??just 24 balls. His innings was a masterclass in power hitting, featuring a barrage of boundaries and maximums that left the opposition stunned. The all-rounder finished unbeaten on 57, showcasing his immense talent with both bat and ball.

This record-breaking knock overshadowed England’s dominant performance throughout the series. The hosts were in imperious form, with their batters and bowlers clicking in unison. The series also marked the emergence of several young English talents who showcased their potential on the big stage.

Also READ: ENG vs WI: David Lloyd names a player who has shades of Adam Gilchrist in England’s Test team

The Fastest fifties in Test cricket

Stokes’s blistering innings joins an elite list of the quickest half-centuries in Test cricket. Here’s a look at the top five:

Misbah-ul-Haq (Pakistan)

The Pakistani maestro holds the record for the fastest Test fifty, achieved in just 21 balls against Australia in 2014. Renowned for his calm and composed batting, Misbah was the backbone of the Pakistan batting lineup for several years. His captaincy was instrumental in Pakistan’s rise as a Test cricket force.

David Warner (Australia)

The aggressive Australian opener occupies the second spot with a 23-ball fifty against Pakistan. Warner’s penchant for attacking cricket has often yielded breathtaking innings, and this particular knock was no exception. One of the most feared openers in world cricket, Warner’s aggressive batting style has often laid the foundation for Australian victories. His ability to score runs quickly has made him a vital cog in the Australian batting order.

Jacques Kallis (South Africa)

A true all-rounder, Kallis was equally adept with bat and ball. His 24-ball fifty against Zimbabwe underlines his versatility and ability to dominate any bowlin??g attack. The generational talent’s consistency and longevity made him one of the greatest all-rounders of all time.

Ben Stokes (England)

Joining this illustrious list, Stokes’ 24-ball fifty against the West Indies highlights his immense talent and ability to change the course of a game with his bat. A dynamic all-rounder, Stokes has become the heart and soul of the England cricket team. His match-winning abilities with both bat and ball have made him one of the most exciting players in the world.

Shane Shillingford (West Indies)

The enigmatic spinner from the Caribbean surprised everyone with a 25-ball fifty at Kingston in the year 2014 against New Zealand. While primarily known for his bowling, Shillingford showcased his batting prowess on this occasion. Shillingford’s ability to contribute with the bat was a valuable asset to the West Indies team.

England’s clean sweep over West Indies is a testament to their dominance in Test cricket. With a young and talented squad, the future looks bright for English cricket. Stokes’s record-breaking innings will be remembered as one of the highlights of the series and a watershed moment in his illustrious career.

Also READ: Top 5 fastest pacers to take 100 wickets in ODI format ft. Bilal Khan

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The cricketing world was sent into a frenzy when renowned commentator David Lloyd made a startling comparison between a young English batter and the legendary Australian wicket-keeper Adam Gilchrist. Lloyd made these remarks after the conclusion of the third and final Test between England and West Indies in Birmingham. Notably, the young Englishman’s electrifying performance in the final Test has undoubtedly turned heads, but does he truly possess the same explosive qualities as the former Aussie powerhouse?

The Meteoric rise

The player that Lloyd talked about was Jamie Smith, who has certainly caught the eye of many with his aggressive batting style and ability to dismantle bowling attacks. His innings of 95 in the third Test against West Indies, where he showcased a wide array of strokes and a fearless approach, was reminiscent? of the way Gilchrist used to dominate bowlers. Lloyd, known for his astute observations, was quick to draw the parallel, suggesting that Smith could be the next big thing in English cricket.

David Lloyd draws comparisons with Adam Gilchrist

Lloyd expressed his admiration for Smith after watching him play for the first time. Despite hearing positive feedback from trusted sources, Lloyd’s firsthand experience exceeded his expectations, drawing comparisons to the excitement he felt during Kevin Pietersen‘s era. Lloyd believes Smith has the potential for a long and impactful career, capable of dominating matches similarly to how Gilchrist did.

“I’ve heard a lot about Jamie Smith from some very knowledgeable people, but this weekend was the first time seeing him in the flesh. Wow, and double wow. I haven’t been on the edge of my seat like that since the days of Kevin Pietersen. Smith is going to be around a very long time. He’s going to take games away from the opposition. Shades of Adam Gilchrist,” Lloyd wrote in his column for the Daily Mail.

Also READ: Mark Wood, Ben Stokes ?pro?pel England to a 3-0 series sweep with dominant 10-wicket win against West Indies at Edgbaston

Similarities and differences

While Smith’s batting style bears some resemblance to Gilchrist’s, it’s important to note that they are different players in different eras. Cricket has evolved significantly since Gilchrist’s heyday, and the challenges faced by batsmen today are different. Moreover, Gilchrist was also an exceptional wicket-keeper, a facet that Smith is yet to fully establish himself in.

Not to mention, Gilchrist was more than just a wicket-keeper; he was a match-winner with t?he bat. His explosive starts, ability to clear the boundary with ease, and his knack for turning the game on its head made him a formidable force. His impact on the game was immense, and any comparison to him is undoubtedly a huge compliment.

Also READ: Here is why Zimbabwe will receive a ‘fee�?for their tour of En??gland in 2025 for the one-off Test

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England secured a dominant 10-wicket win against the West Indies in the third Test match at Edgbaston, Birmingham, on Sunday (July) 28 and also won the series ultimately by a 3-0 margin.

The star of the show was Mark Wood, who delivered a sensational performance by taking a stunning five-wicket haul to bowl out the West Indies for 175. His remarkable spell of 5/9 in six overs dismantled the visitors’ batting lineup in the first session of Day 3. This exceptional display of fast bowling not only left the West Indies reeling but also electrified the Edgbaston crowd, setting the stage for England’s emphatic victory. Wood’s ability to consistently bowl at high speeds and extract bounce made him virtually unplayable, highlighting his crucial role in England’s comprehensive win.

West Indies struggles against fierce pace against Mark Wood 

Starting the third day at 33/2, the West Indies found it difficult to post a competitive total despite individual fifties from Mikyle Louis and Kavem Hodge. Louis scored his maiden Test fifty, showing promise with his composed batting, while Hodge played a measured innings to provide some resistance. However, their efforts were not enough to withstand Wood’s fiery spell. Gus Atkinson also contributed significantly, capping off his debut series with two wickets for 28 runs. The combined pressure from Wood and Atkinson proved too much for the West Indies, as their innings folded at 175, leaving England with a modest target to chase. The lack of support for Louis and Hodge from the rest of the batting lineup underscored the West Indies’ struggles against high-quality pace bowling.

Also READ: ECB chief giv?es final verdict on Pakistan hosting the Champions Trophy 2025 amid India’s uncertain stance

Ben Stokes’ record-breaking fifty

Chasing a target of 82 runs, captain Ben Stokes promoted himself to open the innings alongside Ben Duckett due to regular opener Zak Crawley‘s finger injury. Stokes delivered a blistering performance, smashing an unbeaten 55 runs off just 28 balls. His knock included 10 fours and one six, showcasing his aggressive approach and fearless batting style. Stokes reached his fifty in just 24 balls, recording the fastest-ever Test half-century for England. This remarkable feat, part of the ‘Bazball’ approach emphasizing aggressive and dynamic cricket, thrilled the spectators as Stokes led his team to victory in just 7.2 overs.

Here’s how Fans reacted:

Mark Wood's spell after lunch: 6-0-9-5 😱#EngvWI

— Vithushan Ehantharajah (@Vitu_E) July 28, 2024

Ben S?tokes has a half-century ??from 24 balls, the fastest for England in Test cricket.

— Will Macpherson (@willis_macp) July 28, 2024

Ultimately West Indies deserved to lose 3-0 but they will reflect on moments at Trent Bridge (1st innings lead) and Edgbaston 55/5 where they could/sh??ould have pressed home the advantage.

But they didnt because they simply lack the requisite test match nous & experien??ce.

— Caribbean Cricket Podcast (@CaribCricket) July 28, 2024

Below us, England are lifting the Wisden Tr…. sorry, the Botham-Richards Trophy following their 3-0 win.

— Lawrence Booth (@BoothCricket) July 28, 2024

Well deserved MoM for @MAWood33 and hopefully we see him play a full part in the Sri Lanka series #EngvWI

— Mark Denholm 📻 (@markdenholm) July 28, 2024

England complete 3-0 series whitewash. Hardly a competitive series, England won all 3 games by 241 runs, an innings and 114 and by 10wkts! #ENGvWI #bbccricket

— Ashley Parker (@Ashleypp1986) July 28, 2024

Ben Stokes opened and scored 58* (27) second Time he opened in Tests, last time was also against West Indies in 2020 and smashed 79* (57?) and even last time he replaced Zak Crawley.

England hammered Windies 3-0#ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/058kTNWVrh

— Abhijeet �?(@TheYorkerBall) July 28, 2024

Stokes comes out to open the batting and send a statement artic??les coming soon.

— Nikhil 🏏 (@CricCrazyNIKS) July 28, 2024

England's Gus Atkinson wins the Player of the Series award. #Cricket #GusAtkinson #England #Test #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/72N8uq05MR

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) July 28, 2024

That's it for the match and series.

Well fought by @englandcricket to win by 3-0.#ENGvWI | #MenInMaroon | #Apex pic.twitter.com/NWnkLWAYB6

— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) July 28, 2024

Also READ: ECB comes up w?ith lucrative offers for IPL owners to invest in The Hundred

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England showcased a dominant performance on Day 2, taking charge of the third Test against the West Indies at Edgbaston. After resuming their innings on 38/3, England built a substantial total of 376 runs, powered by significant contributions from Jamie Smith and Joe Root. Smith played a brilliant knock of 95 runs, displaying fluent stroke play and solid technique. With his trademark resilience, Root scored 87, steering England to a strong position. Alzarri Joseph shone with the ball for the West Indies, claiming 4 wickets for 122 runs in an otherwise ch?allenging day for the visitors.

West Indies encounter early setbacks

In their response, the West Indies faced immediate pressure, ending the second day at a precarious 33/2. The early loss of captain Kraigg Brathwaite for a duck in the very first over, thanks to a delivery from Chris Woakes, was a significant blow. Kirk McKenzie followed shortly, dismissed for 8, further deepening the West Indies’ plight. Despite the tumultuous start, Alick Athanaze and Mikyle Louis demonstrate??d composure under pressure, managing to see their team to stumps with their partnership intact.

England’s morning struggles and recovery

Earlier, England’s innings began in turmoil as Shamar Joseph dismissed Ollie Pope in the third over, and Harry Brook fell victim to Jayden Seales, leaving the team reeling at 54/5. However, the resilience of captain Ben Stokes and Joe Root proved invaluable. The duo formed a vital 103-run partnersh?ip, stabilizing the innings and taking England to lunch at 157/5. Root, with his aggressive intent, reached his fifty in 68 balls, while Stokes notched his fifty in 63 balls. Their partnership extended to 115 runs before Stokes was dismissed for 54 by Joseph, giving West Indies a glimmer of hope.

Also WATCH: Edgbaston goes blue as England and West Indies honour late Bob Willis on Day 2 of the 3rd ??Test

Joe Root breaks records

Root continued to etch his name into the record books, surpassing Brian Lara to become the second England batter to reach 12,000 runs in Test cricket. His innings of 87 was a testament to his exceptional skill and consistency. Root was on the brink of his 33rd Test century but was dismissed by Gudakesh Motie, leaving England at 231/7. His perfor??mance further solidified his status as one of England’s great??est batter.

Jamie Smith and Chris Woakes forge a crucial partnership

As the West Indies sought to exploit England’s weakened position, a vital 106-run stand between Smith and Chris Woakes emerged as a game-changer. Smith, with a well-crafted 95 off 109 balls, and Woakes, contributing a resolute 62 off 78, provided the backbone for England’s innings. Their partnership ensured a lead of 94 runs for England. Gus Atkinson also made a valuable contribution with a quickfire 21 off 16 balls, pushing England’s total to 376 and providing a substantial lead heading into the West Indies’ second innings.

Here’s how Fans reacted:

Joe Root has more Test runs than Brian Lara.

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 27, 2024

Second Test fifty for Jamie Smith! 🙌

He’s taken to Test cricket brilliantly! 💥

🤎 | #SurreyCricket pic.twitter.com/qXnmwKdBNl

— Surrey Cricket (@surreycricket) July 27, 2024

This pitch at Edgbaston is a disgrace. Root & Smith both robbed of tons to balls that have shot along the floor on day 2. England on top, but if we have to chase anything much over 200, that will be a struggle. #ENGvWI

— Nathan pufc (@PufcNathan) July 27, 2024

Incredible turnaround by @englandcricket today, can't quite believe how the lads have pulled that back to just shy of 400 runs. #ENGvWI

— Callum West (@Callum1093) July 27, 2024

Stumps on day two at Edgbaston

West Indies 33-2 in their ?second innings trail England by 61.

A good day for England. #TestCricket

— Michael Stephen Day 🎸 (@integraps) July 27, 2024

WI survived till stumps on 33-2

Hard to believe it's only Day 2! Could very well be another 3 day Test #ENGvWI

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) July 27, 2024

//twitter.com/??GlazeAlber/status/1817259226382922141

Cricket test ma??tch. England well on top close of play. I told you they would take it down town well and truly did. West Indies need to battle now

— Russ Smith (@Emperorruss) July 27, 2024

What a knock by Jamie Smith 🏏👊

– Falls five runs short of his maiden Test century 👏 #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/Ljb4sk1IlV

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) July 27, 2024

7️⃣?? wickets between the pair of Joseph and Seales!💥🫱🏾‍🫲�?a href="//twitter.com/hashtag/ENGvWI?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5?Etfw" data-wpel-link="exclude">#ENGvWI | #MenInMaroon | #Apex pic.twitter.com/hxCAvJZ2qr

— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) July 27, 2024

//t??witter.com/aspitweets/status/1817257283862036487

Also READ: Cricket Weekly Roundup: Beginning?? of Gautam Gambhir��s coaching era to Women’s Asia C??up finalists

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In an enthralling first day of the Test match between England and the West Indies, a combination of gritty batting and brilliant fielding has set the stage for an exciting contest. The West Indies set a commendable target with a total of 282 runs, thanks to notable half-centuries from skipper Kraigg Brathwaite and all-rounder Jason Holder.

Joe Root’s spectacular catch dismisses Gudakesh Motie 

In a riveting moment of the match, England’s Joe Root produced a sensational piece of fielding to dismiss Gudakesh Motie for 8 runs; Gus Atkinson’s short delivery forced Motie into an awkward position. Attempting to fend off the ball after momentarily losing sight of it, Motie could only manage a glancing edge. ?The ball veered off the splice of his bat and appeared destined for the wicketkeeper, who was also scrambling for a catch. Root, stationed at first slip, showcased his sharp reflexes and anticipation. Despite being partially blinded by the wicketkeeper’s presence, Root instinctively raced behind and executed a full-length dive to his right. With remarkable agility, he plucked the ball one-handed just above the ground, securing a catch that left spectators and commentators in awe.

Here is the video:

Joe Root what have you just done!? 😱🤯 pic.twitter.com/SZ5aZ5f7kY

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 26, 2024

Also: ENG v?s WI [WATCH]: Mark Wood’s cleans up Kirk McKenzie with an absolute peach on? Day 1 of the 3rd Test

England bowlers keep West Indies batsman at bay 

Brathwaite anchored the West Indies innings with a resolute 61 runs off 86 balls, including eight boundaries. Holder provided valuable support with a steady 59 from? 112 balls, hitting six fours and a six. Their efforts were instrumental in the West Indies reaching 282 before being all out.

England’s bowlers made significant inroads, with every member of the attack contributing to the wicket tally, except for captain Ben Stokes. Atkinson was particul?arly impressive, claiming four wickets in the innings at an economy rate of 3.40.

In the third session, England faced a challenging period as they lost three wickets quickly, including that of Ben Duckett, who was one of the key performers in the previous match. Jayden Seales was the standout bowler for the West Indies during this crucial phase, dismissing both Zak Crawley (18 runs) and Mark Wood (0).

Also READ: ?Fans react as West Indies mount a late fightback to put England under ?pressure on Day 1 of the 3rd Test

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England‘s star batter Joe Root made history on the second day of the third Test against the West Indies at Edgbaston. Root, who started the day needing just 14 runs to surpass West Indian legend Brian Lara‘s career total, reached this milestone in the 14th over of England’s first innings. Unbeaten on 2* overnight, Root carefully played his way to this significant achievement, adding another milestone to his illustrious career.

Joe Root surpasses Brian Lara

In the 10th over of the innings, Root had a lucky escape when an LBW decision off Jayden Seales‘ bowling was not reviewed by the West Indies. Replays later showed that Root would have been out if the review had been taken. This fortunate moment allowed Root to continue and ultimately surpass Lara’s total of 11,953 Test runs. He had started the series as the 10th-highest run-scorer in Test cricket and made steady progress, moving past Mahela Jayawardene and Shivnarine Chanderpaul in the second Test.

Root becomes the 7th-highest run-scorer in Test cricket

By surpassing Lara, Root has now become the seventh-highest run-scorer in the history of Test cricket. The Yorkshireman, who has found his form again in this series, is currently the leading run-scorer in the three-match series against the West Indies. His remarkable career now includes 32 centuries and 62 fifties, and he holds the records for the most runs and centuries in World Test Championship history. Many believe that Root has the potential to eventually become the all-time leading run-scorer in Test cricket, further solidifying his status as one of the game’s greats.

Also WATCH: Edgbaston goes blue as England and West Indies honour late Bob Willis on Day 2 o?f the 3rd Test

Batters with most runs in Tests

• 15921 �?Sachin Tendulkar (India)
• 13378 �?Ricky Ponting (Australia)
• 13289 �?Jacques Kallis (South Africa)
• 13288 �?Rahul Dravid (India)
• 12472 �?Alastair Cook (England)
• 12400 �?Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)
• 12000 �?Joe Root (England)*

Also READ: Cricket Weekly Roundup: Beginning of Gaut?am Gambhir’s coachi?ng era to Women’s Asia Cup finalists

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The Day 1 of the third Test between England and West Indies was an action-packed affair at Edgbaston. Both teams put up a fierce fight, showcasing riveting cricketing action. West Indies, after being bowled out for 282 in their first innings, made a strong comeback by reducing England to 38/3 at the stumps. The day was filled with intense moments as both sides vied for dominance, setting the stage for an int??riguing contest ahead.

Blue for Bob Day: Honoring Bob Willis

Ahead of the start of play on Day 2, a touching tribute was paid to the legendary cricketer Bob Willis. Both teams walked out to the middle wearing blue-colored caps as the entire stadium stood up to pay respect to Willis and support the cause. Willis’ daughter, Katie, was present at the venue and expressed her gratitude to the fans for their support in raising funds for the ‘Blue for Bob’ day, commemorating Willis, who passed away from prostate cancer in 2019. Edgbaston, Willis’s domestic home for much of his career and a venue where he played five Test matches, was an apt setting for this tribute.

Here’s the video:

The whole of Edgbaston stands to remember the great Bob Willis 💙 pic.twitter.com/hKRf6q0Jv7

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 27, 2024

Also WATCH: ENG vs WI : Mark Wood’s cleans up Kirk McKenzie with ??an absolute peach on Day 1 of the 3rd Test

Legacy of Willis

The “Blue for Bob” initiative honors the memory of former England cricketer Willis. The event encourages players and fans to wear blue to raise awareness and funds for prostate cancer research. The first “Blue for Bob�?event took place at Edgbaston during an ODI match between England and Pakistan in 2021. The subsequent events were held during the rescheduled fifth Test between England and India in 2022 and the first Ashes Test between England and Australia in 2023.

Willis: A cricketing legend

Willis is remembered not just for his remarkable cricketing skills but also for his contributions off the field. His best bowling figures came in the 1981 Ashes Test at Headingley, where he took 8 wickets for 43 runs, dismantling Australia and securing a memorable win for England. After retiring in July 1984, Willis transitioned into a role as a Sky Sports analyst, where he delighted viewers with his sharp and witty analysis. His legacy continues to inspire, and the “Blue for Bob” day serves as a heartfelt reminder of his impact on the game and his battle against prostate cancer.

Also READ: Cricket W??eekly Roundup: Beginning of Gautam Gam?bhir’s coaching era to Women’s Asia Cup finalists

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On Day 1 of the 3rd Test match at Edgbaston, Birmingham, West Indies faced a challenging start after being bowled out for 282 runs. Despite a resilient 61-run innings from Kraigg Brathwaite, who scored his half-century off 70 balls and hit 8 fours, West Indies struggled against England’s disciplined bowling attack. Gus Atkinson was particularly impressive, claiming four wickets, while Chris Woakes added three to his tally. West Indies initially looked strong, with Brathwaite and Mikyle Louis managing to negot??iate the opening overs, but their innings faltered as England’s bowlers tightened their grip.

West Indies top order collapse

England capitalized on their bowling prowess, dismissing West Indies for 282 runs. After a solid start by Brathwaite and Louis, the West Indies innings unraveled quickly. England’s bowlers, led by Atkinson and Woakes, dismantled the middle and lower order. Following Brathwaite’s dismissal for 61, the West Indies collapsed from 76/0 to 115/5, with rapid wickets falling post-lunch. Woakes and Atkinson were instrumental in this collapse, causing West Indies to lose five wickets quickly, limiting their first-innings total.

Jason Holder and Joshua da Silva rescue West Indies

Jason Holder and Joshua Da Silva provided a much-needed rescue act for the West Indies, constructing a crucial unbroken 79-run partnership for the sixth wicket. Both players demonstrated resilience and maturity, with Holder scoring 59 and Da Silva contributing 49. Their efforts helped West Indies recover from a precarious position of 97/3 to a more respectable 194/5 by tea. Their partnership was key in stabilizing the innings and ensuring West Indies set a competitive total. How??ever once both batters dismissed, the tailenders could not nothing much as the visitors were wrapped up under 300.

Also WATCH: ENG vs WI : Mark Wood’s cleans up Ki??rk McKenzie with an absolute peach on Day 1 of the 3rd Test

England’s response stalled by West Indies�?early breakthroughs

England’s reply began with difficulties as they lost three early wickets in their pursuit of West Indies’ total. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett fell to Jayden Seales and Alzarri Joseph respectively, with Duckett’s dismissal coming via an inside edge onto his own stumps. Mark Wood, who was promoted as a nightwatchman, was caught by Seales in the slips. England ended the day at 38/3, with Ollie Pope and Joe Root taske??d with na?vigating a tricky period before stumps, leaving the match delicately poised.

Here’s how Fans reacted:

West Indies gone from being disappointed with their innings to be a lot happier at the state of England's all in the space of 20 odd minutes 🤦🏻‍♀�?/p>

— Amy (@blue_nose_amy) July 26, 2024

This is embarrassing from England west indies haven't really had to work for these wickets

— Markbhafc (@markbhafc777) July 26, 2024

The short ball to Ollie Pope from Jayden Seales did reminiscence me of the Windies of 80's in front of my eyes for a second 🫠🔥#ENGvWI

— Dinesh here 🙋‍♂️🇿�?(@dinesh_offl_06) July 26, 2024

Sometimes, watching Ben Stokes' captaincy decision is like watching a child struggling to colour inside the lines. Why on earth send in Wood with nearly 20 minutes to play. Guarantee if he didn't go in Duckett ends the night in with Pope. Duckett saw that as a red flag.
#ENGvWI

— Dan (@_Dan_UW) July 26, 2024

A neat little session for WI, picking up 3 wickets in 8 overs. England's middle order has been in good form, WI would want to keep intensity high tomorrow morning to keep the game alive. #ENGvWI

— Gaurav Jindal (@gj100596) July 26, 2024

//twitter.com/harryxafc/sta??tus/1816890572746969257

🏏 I’ve never understood why teams send in a Night Watchman but, when that player is out before the close of play, they send in a proper batter rather than another Night Watchman. #ENGvWI #Cricket

— Ian Senior (@tweatirs) July 26, 2024

Top catch from Jason. Good period of play for Windies! 💪#ENGvWI

— Nikhil 🏏 (@CricCrazyNIKS) July 26, 2024

West Indies 🔥🔥

— Saurabh Malhotra (@MalhotraSaurabh) July 26, 2024

Brilliant bowling from Gus Atkinson 👏#cricket #ENGvWI #GusAtkinson #englandcricket #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/RkIeFf3D3F

— betvisa68.com (@CricketTimesHQ) July 26, 2024

3️⃣ WICKETS DOWN!🔥 #ENGvWI | #MenInMaroon pic.twitter.com/Wros6hNyS3

— Windies Cricket (@windiescricket) July 26, 2024

An action-packed day of Test cricket comes to an end 🤝 pic.twitter.com/75jGqVu9sD

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 26, 2024

Also READ: Ian Bishop’s morale boosting message to the young West Indies squad following the Test series loss ?against England

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