ICC Honors Gus Atkinson as Player of the Month for July After Stellar Test Debut
Surrey pace bowler Gus Atkinson has been named the ICC’s Player of the Month for July, becoming the first Englishman to win the prestigious award in over a year. The 26-year-old’s stunning performance during England’s recent 3-match Test series against West Indies at Lord’s was the driving force behind this recognition.
Atkinson claimed remarkable figures of 12 for 106 on his Test debut, the best by an Englishman since 1890. His match-winning displays saw him bag a total of 22 wickets in the series, earning him the Man of the Series award.
“The start to my Test career has been unbelievable, and I never imagined achieving this level of success in my first series with England,” expressed a delighted Atkinson. “I am incredibly grateful to my team-mates and the fantastic environment created by Baz (Brendon McCullum) and Stokesy (Ben Stokes).”
The young pace sensation acknowledged the hard work that lies ahead, with a crucial Test series against Sri Lanka on the horizon.
“It’s an honor to play and represent my country. I know there is a lot of hard work ahead, especially with a big series against Sri Lanka coming up. I’m excited to maintain consistency and do my best to help England succeed.”
England’s first Test against Sri Lanka begins next Wednesday in Manchester, though the hosts may have to make do without captain Ben Stokes, who sustained a hamstring injury on Sunday. The ECB medical team is currently assessing the issue and may wait for the situation to settle before sending Stokes for a scan.
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