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Joe Root, Jamie Smith shine as England tighten their grip over the West Indies on Day 2 of the Edgbaston Test

Admin July 28, 2024
Joe Root and Jamie Smith

England showcased a dominant performance on Day 2, taking charge of the third Test against the West Indies at Edgbaston. After resuming their innings on 38/3, England built a substantial total of 376 runs, powered by significant contributions from Jamie Smith and Joe Root. Smith played a brilliant knock of 95 runs, displaying fluent stroke play and solid technique. With his trademark resilience, Root scored 87, steering England to a strong position. Alzarri Joseph shone with the ball for the West Indies, claiming 4 wickets for 122 runs in an otherwise challenging day for the visitors.

West Indies encounter early setbacks

In their response, the West Indies faced immediate pressure, ending the second day at a precarious 33/2. The early loss of captain Kraigg Brathwaite for a duck in the very first over, thanks to a delivery from Chris Woakes, was a significant blow. Kirk McKenzie followed shortly, dismissed for 8, further deepening the West Indies’ plight. Despite the tumultuous start, Alick Athanaze and Mikyle Louis demonstrated composure under pressure, managing to see their team to stumps with their partnership intact.

England’s morning struggles and recovery

Earlier, England’s innings began in turmoil as Shamar Joseph dismissed Ollie Pope in the third over, and Harry Brook fell victim to Jayden Seales, leaving the team reeling at 54/5. However, the resilience of captain Ben Stokes and Joe Root proved invaluable. The duo formed a vital 103-run partnership, stabilizing the innings and taking England to lunch at 157/5. Root, with his aggressive intent, reached his fifty in 68 balls, while Stokes notched his fifty in 63 balls. Their partnership extended to 115 runs before Stokes was dismissed for 54 by Joseph, giving West Indies a glimmer of hope.

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Joe Root breaks records

Root continued to etch his name into the record books, surpassing Brian Lara to become the second England batter to reach 12,000 runs in Test cricket. His innings of 87 was a testament to his exceptional skill and consistency. Root was on the brink of his 33rd Test century but was dismissed by Gudakesh Motie, leaving England at 231/7. His performance further solidified his status as one of England’s greatest batter.

Jamie Smith and Chris Woakes forge a crucial partnership

As the West Indies sought to exploit England’s weakened position, a vital 106-run stand between Smith and Chris Woakes emerged as a game-changer. Smith, with a well-crafted 95 off 109 balls, and Woakes, contributing a resolute 62 off 78, provided the backbone for England’s innings. Their partnership ensured a lead of 94 runs for England. Gus Atkinson also made a valuable contribution with a quickfire 21 off 16 balls, pushing England’s total to 376 and providing a substantial lead heading into the West Indies’ second innings.

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