• Gus Atkinson smashed a stunning maiden Test century on Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s.

  • The achievement made Atkinson only the sixth cricketer to have his name displayed on the honors board three times.

ENG vs SL: Netizens celebrate as Gus Atkinson hits his maiden ton at iconic Lord’s on Day 2 of the 2nd Test
Gus Atkinson (Image Source: X)

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Gus Atkinson, the rising star of England cricket, etched his name into the history books with a stunning maiden Test century on Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s. Atkinson’s remarkable innings not only demonstrated his skill with the bat but also ensured his name would be proudly displayed on three honors boards at the home of cricket.

Gus Atkinson’s unbeaten start and confident continuation

Resuming on day two at an unbeaten 74 off just 81 deliveries, Atkinson showed no signs of nerves. His chanceless innings was a masterclass in positive, yet measured, Test batting. Having made his international debut earlier in the summer with an impressive haul of 12 wickets, including a five-wicket performance in James Anderson’s final Test, Atkinson added another feather to his cap with a blistering century. His milestone came off a mere 100 deliveries, featuring 11 fours and four towering sixes, underscoring his aggressive intent and impeccable timing.

A rare achievement at Lord’s

Atkinson’s century placed him in an elite group, making him only the sixth cricketer to score a century, take five wickets in an innings, and claim 10 wickets in a match at Lord’s. The intent was clear from the outset as he clipped Lahiru Kumara for a boundary on the first ball of the day, following it up with another crisply driven four through the covers. His confidence was palpable as he continued to build on his innings with a blend of elegant stroke play and aggressive shot-making.

Also READ: Players with most Test centuries at Lord’s – feat Joe Root

Overcoming challenges and near misses

However, Atkinson’s journey to his century was not without its challenges. On 82, he was struck on the pad by a delivery that initially had him given out LBW. Demonstrating astute awareness, Atkinson immediately reviewed the decision. The DRS revealed that the ball was missing the stumps due to excessive movement, and the on-field decision was overturned, much to the delight of the England balcony where Marcus Trescothick punched the air in celebration.

After this close call, Atkinson continued to push towards his century. A streaky inside edge brought him a single, followed by another boundary that took him into the high eighties. A thick edge narrowly avoided the hands of the fielders, keeping his hopes alive.

Nervous nineties and the final push

As Atkinson entered the nineties, the tension mounted. He surpassed his previous highest first-class score of 91, achieved two years ago for Surrey against a Sri Lanka development XI, with a well-timed pull shot off his hip. The 26-year-old then moved to 99 with a beautifully executed drive through extra cover, sending the ball racing towards the Warner Stand.

Atkinson, like many before him, felt the nerves at the cusp of his century. It took him 12 deliveries to move from 99 to 100, a period filled with anticipation. He nearly edged one outside the off stump, but the ball evaded his bat, keeping his dream intact.

Finally, the moment arrived. Atkinson drove the ball straight down the ground towards the pavilion, his powerful stroke piercing the field and taking him to his maiden Test century. The emotions spilled over as Atkinson ran off, fists clenched in triumph, before removing his helmet and soaking in the applause from the Lord’s crowd.

Here’s how Fans reacted:

Also READ: ENG vs SL: Fans go wild as Joe Root equals Alastair Cook’s record for England with 33rd Test century at Lord’s

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