The England cricket team has included right-arm pacer Gus Atkinson in their squad for the crucial third Test against India, set to begin on July 10 at Lord’s Cricket Ground. Atkinson, who missed the first two Tests due to a hamstring injury, has now fully recovered and is fit to play.
He sustained the injury during England’s innings win over Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge, where he picked up three wickets. The setback sidelined him not only from the subsequent white-ball series against the West Indies but also from the initial two Tests of the India series.
With Chris Woakes and Josh Tongue failing to make a significant impact in the opening matches, Atkinson could be drafted into the playing XI for the Lord’s Test. Jofra Archer, also part of the squad, remains another option for selection. England are looking to bounce back after a heavy 336-run loss in the second Test at Edgbaston.
England squad: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes.
Gus Atkinson Returns To Lord’s, Site Of His Test Debut
Gus Atkinson made a memorable Test debut at Lord’s last year against the West Indies, where he not only impressed with the ball by taking a five-wicket haul but also contributed to England’s dominant innings-and-14-run victory. In his 12 Test appearances so far, Atkinson has taken 35 wickets at an average of 22.30 and has also scored a century in the format.
Following a heavy workload for Chris Woakes, Josh Tongue, and Brydon Carse during the Edgbaston Test, England may consider bringing in fresh pace options for the upcoming match at Lord’s. With India having beaten England in their last encounter at the historic ground, Ben Stokes’ side will be aiming to deliver a much-improved performance.
There could also be some adjustments in the batting lineup, as Ollie Pope’s position might come under scrutiny due to his inconsistent form since scoring a century in the first innings at Leeds.
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