Image Source: X
[Saba Sports News] Gus Atkinson demonstrated he’s much more than a lower-order batter by scoring his maiden Test century during England’s first innings in the second Test at Lord’s against Sri Lanka. Atkinson’s impressive 118 off just 115 balls marked his first-ever ton in first-class cricket.
His century, combined with Joe Root’s 143 off 206 balls, turned the tide for England, lifting them from a precarious position to dominating the match. Atkinson joined Root when England was struggling at 216/6 after two quick wickets fell following a strong partnership between Root and Harry Brook. By the time Atkinson was dismissed, England had surged to 420/9.
The Lord’s official X handle shared a video of Atkinson’s father reacting to his son’s century from the stands, where he was joined by commentator Mark Nicholas. “Ecstatic, obviously. Especially at Lord’s and following up on his debut, it’s just quite unreal. And it is his brother’s birthday as well, which makes it even more special. It’s a marvelous moment. Such a thrill,” Atkinson’s father said in the video.
He also expressed his joy at seeing his son excel with both bat and ball. “Can’t quite believe it. The names are all up there. There are great all-rounders, and it is still early days, but I am just so thrilled that he has managed to express himself with bat and ball. For us as a family, it is just wonderful to see him succeed,” he added.
Atkinson made his Test debut earlier this year against the West Indies at Lord’s, where he took a seven-wicket haul in his first innings. He has since taken 26 wickets in the four Tests he has played. Before this match, Atkinson had scored just 505 runs in 23 first-class matches at an average of 20.20, with three half-centuries. In his previous four Tests, he had scored 64 runs at an average of 16.00.