England’s batsmen have etched their names in the history books, achieving an unprecedented feat in Test cricket. During the second Test against West Indies at Trent Bridge, England became the first team ever to score over 400 runs in both innings of a Test match.
West Indies Strike First with Bowling Advantage
West Indies captain Kraigg Brathwaite opted to field first after winning the toss, putting the pressure on England’s batting lineup. The decision initially seemed justified as England reached a decent total of 416 runs thanks to half-centuries from Ben Duckett (71) and Ben Stokes (69), with Ollie Pope anchoring the innings with a well-compiled century (121). Alzarri Joseph was the pick of the West Indies bowlers, claiming three wickets.
West Indies, however, showed remarkable resilience in their first innings. Facing a potential collapse at 84/3, a counter-attacking partnership between Alick Athanaze (82) and Kavem Hodge (120) turned the tide. They stitched together a crucial 175-run stand, reviving West Indies’ hopes. Later, a valiant 71-run partnership for the tenth wicket between Joshua da Silva (82*) and Shamar Joseph (33) helped West Indies surpass England’s total, ending their innings at 457 runs with a slender 41-run lead. Chris Woakes picked up four wickets for England, while young pacer Gus Atkinson and spinner Jack Leach chipped in with two wickets each.
England Responds in Kind with Another Mammoth Total
England, unfazed by West Indies’ fightback, continued their batting dominance in the second innings. Openers Ben Duckett (76) and Ollie Pope (51) provided a solid foundation, but it was the centuries from Joe Root (122) and Harry Brook (109) that propelled England to another mammoth total. The visitors ultimately declared at 425/10, setting West Indies a daunting target of 385 runs to win the Test and level the series.
This remarkable display of batting prowess from England has not only secured them a strong position in the second Test but has also created a unique scenario in Test cricket history. With both teams exceeding 400 runs in their first three innings, this match marks the first instance of such a feat.
The pressure now lies squarely on West Indies’ shoulders. Chasing a sizeable target of 385 runs to avoid going 2-0 down in the series will be a monumental task. All eyes will be on the Windies batsmen as they attempt to script a historic comeback in the remaining days of the Test.
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