England Inch Closer to Victory in First Test Against West Indies
England are on the verge of securing the first Test victory of the summer against the West Indies, maintaining their dominance on day two at Lord’s.
Resuming at 189-3, a lead of 68 runs after bowling out West Indies for 121 on the opening day, England extended their advantage to 250 before being dismissed for 371. Harry Brook, Joe Root, and debutant wicketkeeper Jamie Smith all scored half-centuries, while veteran Jimmy Anderson remained unbeaten on 0 without facing a delivery in what could be his final Test innings.
Anderson then spearheaded the bowling attack, dismissing West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite and Alize Athanaze, caught behind by Smith. Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson also claimed two wickets apiece, leaving the visitors reeling at 79-6, still 171 runs shy of making England bat again.
In a significant milestone, Stokes became the third player, after Garry Sobers and Jacques Kallis, to complete the Test double of 200 wickets and 6,000 runs. Meanwhile, Smith’s assured 70-run knock on debut made him the third wicketkeeper to pass 50 on his maiden Test appearance at Lord’s, following Jack Russell and Matt Prior.
The 100-ball cricket schedule, 100-ball cricket live, club cricket, Chester le Street cricket ground, and Chester le Street cricket enthusiasts will be closely following the final day’s action as England inch closer to victory in the first Test.
🔗 Source