![ENG vs WI [WATCH]: Ollie Pope’s stunning catch to dismiss Kavem Hodge on Day 1 of the Lord’s Test](https://crickettimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Pope-grabs-a-stunner.webp "ENG vs WI [WATCH]: Ollie Pope’s stunning catch to dismiss Kavem Hodge on Day 1 of the Lord’s Test")
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In a dramatic turn of events on the opening day of the first Test between England and the West Indies at Lord’s, debutant Gus Atkinson stole the spotlight with a remarkable seven-wicket haul, while Ollie Pope pulled off a stunning catch to dismiss Kavem Hodge. The last test of the legendary English bowler James Anderson had its moments that will be remembered and referred in the future.
Gus Atkinson’s show on display
The day began with the West Indies struggling at 88 for 6, having been put in to bat by England captain Ben Stokes. Atkinson, the 24-year-old fast bowler, showcased his impressive skills, troubling the West Indies batters with his consistent line, length, and significant pace. His ability to utilise the slope from the Pavilion End, a challenge for many, did not deter his accuracy.
The dismissals of the West Indies batters revealed technical flaws, from chasing deliveries outside off stump to awkward defences leading to edges. Kraigg Brathwaite, the experienced West Indies captain, fell victim to impatience, losing his wicket to Atkinson’s cunning bowling.
The incredible Olie Pope on the field
In a dramatic moment, Hodge, the last recognised West Indies batsman, played a fierce square drive off Chris Woakes. However, Pope, standing well in front of the normal point position, pulled off an incredible catch to dismiss Hodge. Pope’s exceptional catch seemed almost effortless, defying expectations with his positioning on the field.
Hodge, dropping to his knees in astonishment, gripped the bat handle tightly while gazing at his batting companion, Alzarri Joseph, with a look of disbelief. The West Indies batting lineup struggled to adapt to the conditions, showing signs of impatience when composure was required.
Here’s the video
Smacked for fou-OH MY GOODNESS 😅
Ollie Pope, that is a sensational catch 🔥 pic.twitter.com/LT3GCJbkEr
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 10, 2024
Also READ: Top 5 cricketers with most Test matches ft. James Anderson
The end of day 1 left West Indies in despair
Mikyle Louis displayed a more composed approach, playing with a solid defence and capitalising on scoring opportunities when presented. However, the challenges of facing a varied attack soon caught up with him, as Stokes strategically outwitted him to claim his wicket.
West Indies were eventually bowled out for 121 runs in 41.4 overs, with Atkinson finishing with impressive figures of 7 for 27. His performance overshadowed the farewell match of legendary pacer Anderson, who announced his retirement from international cricket before the series.
In response, England ended the day at 189 for 3, with Ollie Pope scoring 57 runs. The day belonged to the young guns, with Atkinson and Pope stealing the show on a memorable day at Lord’s.
