In a commanding display, England established a significant lead over the West Indies on the second day of the first Test at Lord’s. Jamie Smith, on his Test debut, made a notable impact, scoring 70 runs in an innings that saw him hit Jayden Seales out of the ground, adding to England’s dominant position. England ended their first innings with a total of 371, propelled by half-centuries from Zak Crawley (76), Joe Root (68), Ollie Pope (57), and Harry Brook (50), and took a commanding 250-run lead over the West Indies, who managed only 121 in their first innings.
Smith, the 23-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, showcased his aggressive intent by accelerating his scoring rate after a cautious start. Coming in at No. 7, he built important partnerships, contributing to England’s total with a series of boundaries, including a massive six off Seales. His aggressive approach, particularly against the second new ball, highlighted his potential and justified his selection over Ben Foakes.
West Indies’ Gudakesh Motie was a standout bowler, taking crucial wickets, including those of Ben Stokes and Joe Root, both dismissed by exceptional deliveries. Motie’s impressive performance, taking 2 for 22 in his morning spell, offered a glimpse of his bowling prowess. However, despite his efforts, the West Indies bowlers struggled against England’s relentless batting lineup.
Ben Stokes sets a record with ball
Ben Stokes has achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming only the third cricketer in history to score over 6000 runs and take 200 wickets in Test cricket, joining the elite company of Garry Sobers (8032 runs & 235 wickets) and Jacques Kallis (13289 runs & 292 wickets). This historic moment came when Stokes dismissed Kirk McKenzie with a superb inswinger, earning his 200th Test wicket.
The delivery was textbook perfect, pitching in line and striking McKenzie’s back pad, leading to an LBW decision upheld by ball-tracking. Umpire Rod Tucker had no hesitation in raising his finger, and the review confirmed the ball was hitting the leg stump. Stokes’ contribution underscores his status as a true all-rounder, significantly impacting England’s match against the West Indies. Kirk McKenzie departed for a duck, making it a challenging situation for the visitors.
As the West Indies began their second innings, they faced an uphill battle, trailing by 232 runs with two wickets already down. Ben Stokes, reaching his 200th Test wicket, further compounded their difficulties by dismissing Kirk McKenzie. With England firmly in control, the West Indies needed a remarkable turnaround to avoid a heavy defeat and mount a credible challenge in the remaining sessions.
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