In the first session of the opening Test at Lord’s on Wednesday, July 10th, England batsman Harry Brook showcased outstanding athleticism with a diving catch at third slip. His exceptional fielding effort resulted in the dismissal of debutant Mikyle Louis, who had scored 27 runs from 58 deliveries.
West Indies, batting first after being put in, navigated through the initial session. Louis faced the challenge of England’s pace trio comprising James Anderson, Chris Woakes, and debutant Gus Atkinson. The newcomer witnessed Atkinson dismiss skipper Kraigg Brathwaite and Kirk McKenzie, leaving them at 36-2 by the 15th over.
During Ben Stokes’ fourth over, he delivered accurately on off-stump, prompting Louis to attempt a defensive shot. However, the right-hander could only manage an outside edge.
Initially, the ball seemed destined to evade the gap between the third slip and the gully. Yet, Brook’s full-length dive to his right intercepted the ball just inches above the ground, securing a crucial catch.
One of the best slip catches you will EVER see from Harry Brook! 😱
That reaction from Ben Stokes though… 🤣 #EnglandCricket | #ENGvWI pic.twitter.com/0MQwMVDH4H
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 10, 2024
Harry Brook makes his return to Test cricket, taking over the No.5 position from Jonny Bairstow after missing the India tour earlier this year due to personal reasons.
He is gaining recognition as one of England’s most dependable fielders. Recently, in the 2024 T20 World Cup Super 8 match against South Africa, he calmly took a low catch. His remarkable juggling catch to dismiss Jonny Bairstow in the 2023 edition of The Hundred is also well-regarded and remembered fondly.
England firmly in control after the opening session, with Brook’s catch proving pivotal
Ben Stokes and his teammates maintained pressure throughout the session. The pace quartet prevented the West Indies batsmen from finding their rhythm, taking wickets at regular intervals, which further hindered their progress.
At the time of writing, the visitors are at 61-3 at lunch. Alick Athanaze and Kavem Hodge are at the crease, with Athanaze on 8 and Hodge on 12, both not out.
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