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Tag: Ben Duckett

  • Ben Duckett faces vicious trolling over ‘Don’t care if we lose 0-3 to India’ remarks after England’s CT 2025 exit

    Ben Duckett faces vicious trolling over ‘Don’t care if we lose 0-3 to India’ remarks after England’s CT 2025 exit

    Ben Duckett has been facing heavy trolling on social media after England’s early exit from the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Recently, Ben Duckett teased Indian fans, and now the Englishman got a taste of his own medicine after Afghanistan took their revenge.

    On Wednesday, February 26, the Afghanistan cricket team defeated England by eight runs to boost their chances of making it to the semifinals of the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, with this crushing defeat, England crashed out of the prestigious tournaments in the group stages.

    As soon as England’s elimination was confirmed, fans dug up an old comment from Ben Duckett, where he had downplayed England’s 3-0 ODI series loss to India. He had stated that the ODI series defeat wouldn’t matter if England could beat India in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

    Read Also: “Feel very uncomfortable with Team India”- Another England Cricketer launches attack after CT exit

    Duckett had stated ahead of the third India-England ODI encounter in Ahmedabad, “If we lose 3-0 to India, I don’t care as long as we beat them in the final of the Champions Trophy. If we do that, we probably won’t look back on this if we do the business in that competition.”

    However, things didn’t go as planned, as India remains unbeaten in the ongoing Champions Trophy 2025, securing a place in the semifinals while England crashed out with a game still left to play, and that is against South Africa on March 1 at the National Cricket Stadium in Karachi.

    Meanwhile, social media users wasted no time in mocking Duckett, reminding him of his past remark and England’s disappointing campaign in India. The fans have been trolling the English batter for his statement on India while mentioning how Afghanistan kicked his team out of the tournament.

    Here’s how the fans trolled Ben Duckett:

    However, Duckett has been in good form with the bat in the tournament. He is currently the leading run scorer in the ongoing ICC Champions Trophy 2025 with 2023 runs in two games at an average of over 101 and a strike rate of over 107.

    He will have the chance to add to his tally against South Africa. Well, England’s struggles in ODI cricket continue as their loss against the Afghan side was their sixth consecutive defeat, marking their worst losing streak since September 2009.

    Read Also: BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla embarrasses himself after false information on Afghanistan vs England; fans hammer

    I don’t want to make any emotional decisions: Jos Buttler

    Notably, England finished 7th on the table in the 2023 ODI World Cup and then failed to make it to the semifinals of the 2024 T20 World Cup. They are also yet to make it to the WTC Final.

    Jos Buttler on England’s CT 2025 campaign: “Disappointing to be knocked out of the tournament early. We had our chances in the game, and we didn’t take them. Joe Root played an unbelievable innings, and we needed one of the top six batters to stay with him. The last 10 overs got away from us a bit. I’m disappointed with my form, but I don’t want to make any emotional decisions.”



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  • IND vs ENG, 1st T20I: Top 5 key battles to watch out for in Kolkata

    IND vs ENG, 1st T20I: Top 5 key battles to watch out for in Kolkata

    England’s highly anticipated white-ball tour of India will kick off with a five-match T20I series, starting on January 22 at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata. This series marks the beginning of a crucial limited-overs campaign for both teams, as they gear up for a challenging cricketing calendar ahead.

    England’s white-ball tour of India begins with T20I game at Eden Gardens

    The tour will be England’s first under their new white-ball head coach, Brendon McCullum, who has taken charge of the limited-overs side after revolutionizing their Test cricket. Captain Jos Buttler will lead a formidable English lineup, which includes explosive batters, versatile all-rounders, and a potent bowling attack featuring Jofra Archer and Adil Rashid. India, on the other hand, will aim to assert their dominance at home with a strong squad led by Suryakumar Yadav.

    The Indian side boasts a mix of experienced campaigners and exciting young talents, making them a formidable opponent on familiar turf. Eden Gardens, with its electrifying atmosphere and rich cricketing history, provides the perfect stage for the series opener. The teams will look to adapt quickly to the conditions, with dew expected to play a significant role in determining strategies during the evening game.

    Top 5 key battles to watch out for in the Kolkata T20I

    1. Ben Duckett vs Arshdeep Singh

    The clash between Ben Duckett and Arshdeep Singh promises to be intriguing, given Duckett’s aggressive approach against the left-arm pacer’s swing and accuracy. Duckett excels in countering spin but has shown vulnerability against quality pace, particularly in the powerplay.

    Arshdeep, known for his pinpoint yorkers and ability to swing the ball, will look to exploit any weakness early. The conditions at Eden Gardens, often favoring swing in the first few overs, could play into Arshdeep’s hands. Duckett, however, will aim to unsettle the bowler by stepping out or playing lofted shots. This face-off could set the tone for England’s innings if Arshdeep can dismiss Duckett early. Conversely, if Duckett manages to dominate, it could leave the Indian attack searching for answers.

    2. Mohammed Shami vs Jos Buttler

    A battle of experience and skill, Mohammed Shami’s disciplined seam bowling against Buttler’s explosive power is a key matchup. Buttler’s ability to take on any bowler in the powerplay will be tested by Shami’s lethal outswingers. Shami, who thrives on building pressure with consistent lines, will aim to dismiss Buttler early to disrupt England’s plans. Buttler, returning from a calf injury, has looked to play more as a pure batter and may attempt to counter Shami’s swing with aggressive intent. If Shami can get Buttler’s wicket, it would be a massive advantage for India. Nevertheless, if Buttler settles, he could make life tough for India with his wide range of strokes.

    Also READ: IND vs ENG: England unveils playing XI for the first T20I against India; Harry Brook named vice-captain

    3. Suryakumar Yadav vs Jofra Archer

    Suryakumar’s 360-degree batting against Archer’s raw pace and bounce promises fireworks. Archer’s comeback adds depth to England’s attack, and he will look to trouble Suryakumar with short-pitched deliveries and yorkers. Suryakumar, known for his ability to manipulate the field, thrives on pace and will aim to counter Archer with innovative shots like the scoop and ramp. The contest could be pivotal in the middle overs, with Suryakumar’s ability to accelerate potentially taking the game away from England. Archer, nonetheless, has the knack for delivering breakthroughs under pressure and will be England’s go-to bowler to neutralize India’s most dynamic batter.

    4. Hardik Pandya vs Adil Rashid

    Hardik Pandya’s power-hitting against Rashid’s crafty leg-spin will be a fascinating middle-overs contest. Rashid has often been England’s trump card, using his variations to stifle batters and pick up crucial wickets. Hardik, who relishes taking on spinners, will look to disrupt Rashid’s rhythm by stepping out and targeting the boundary. Rashid, however, could exploit Hardik’s occasional tendency to misjudge flighted deliveries. This matchup could determine whether India builds momentum or England regains control in the middle overs. If Rashid manages to dismiss Hardik early, it would provide England with a significant edge, but if Hardik succeeds, India could post a formidable total.

    5. Liam Livingstone vs Kuldeep Yadav

    Liam Livingstone’s brute force and Kuldeep Yadav’s guile with wrist-spin make for a thrilling encounter. Livingstone, known for his ability to hit sixes at will, will look to attack Kuldeep and disrupt his rhythm. Kuldeep, on the other hand, will aim to exploit Livingstone’s vulnerability against well-disguised googlies and variations in pace. This battle in the middle and death overs could dictate the flow of England’s innings. Kuldeep’s ability to induce false shots will be crucial, while Livingstone’s counterattacking approach could put pressure on the bowler. If Kuldeep manages to outfox Livingstone, it would be a game-changing moment for India, but if Livingstone dominates, England could gain a significant advantage.

    Also READ: Not Jos Buttler! England’s Brendon McCullum confirms different wicketkeeper for the India T20Is

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  • Cricket Australia announces Test Team of the Year 2024; two Indian players make the cut

    Cricket Australia announces Test Team of the Year 2024; two Indian players make the cut

    It has been a thrilling summer of Test cricket action in Australia, with more to come as the climax of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 arrives in Sydney. In the middle of that, Cricket Australia have now named its 2024 Test Team of the Year with considerable representations from cricketers outside Australia.

    Players from six nations named in Cricket Australia’s Team of the Year 2024

    Cricket Australia has given place to cricketers from 6 cricket-playing nations including England, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, India and Australia. Interestingly, England get most spots with 3 English batters Ben Duckett, Joe Root and Harry Brook featuring in Cricket Australia’s standout XI.

    Sri Lanka and South Africa get one appearance each in the form of middle-order batter Kamindu Mendis and spin sensation Keshav Maharaj from the two nations respectively. Wicket-keeper batter Alex Carey and pacer Josh Hazelwood are the two Australians who have clinched a place in the squad.

    Also Read: ‘Proud of you Dadda’: Jasprit Bumrah’s son shares a heartfelt message after his bowling brilliance in the MCG Test

    Two Indian stars feature in the Test XI

    The two Indians featured in Cricket Australia’s XI are opening batter Yashasvi Jaiswal and pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Additionally, Bumrah has also been named the captain of the team. The 31-year-old was the captain of the Indian team in the first Test match of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 at Perth which India won by 295 runs.

    Jaiswal was the highlight of the match, playing a 161-run knock in the second innings. Australia has since that Test match made a comeback in the series winning the day-night clash in Adelaide and Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, but Jaiswal and Bumrah have consistently troubled the Aussies in the series.

    Bumrah is the leading wicket-taker of the series with 30 wickets to his name and a best bowling figure of 6/76. Jaiswal, on the other hand, is the second highest run-scorer of the series behind Travis Head. The youngster has scored a total of 359 runs in the series so far with a batting average of 51.28.

    Cricket Australia’s Test Team of the Year 2024

    Batters: Yashasvi Jaiswal (IND), Ben Duckett (ENG), Joe Root (ENG), Rachin Ravindra (NZ), Harry Brook (ENG), Kamindu Mendis (SL)

    Wicket-keeper: Alex Carey (AUS)

    Bowlers: Matt Henry (NZ), Josh Hazelwood (AUS), Jasprit Bumrah (IND), Keshav Maharaj (SA)

    Also WATCH: Yashasvi Jaiswal reverses Mitchell Starc’s bail ritual to protect Rishabh Pant’s wicket on Day 5 of the MCG Test

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  • ENG vs AUS [WATCH]: Marnus Labuschagne’s golden arm strikes as Ben Duckett falls short of his century in the 1st ODI

    ENG vs AUS [WATCH]: Marnus Labuschagne’s golden arm strikes as Ben Duckett falls short of his century in the 1st ODI

    Marnus Labuschagne, primarily known for his batting, stepped up with the ball during the 1st ODI between England and Australia at Nottingham on Thursday (September 19). Despite being a part-time bowler, Labuschagne’s leg-spin proved highly effective, as he claimed two vital wickets in quick succession. His breakthrough came at a critical juncture, removing England’s top scorer, Ben Duckett, just as he was closing in on a well-deserved century. Labuschagne’s clever variations and his ability to extract something from the pitch gave Australia a much-needed shift in momentum.

    Ben Duckett’s heartbreaking dismissal at 95

    Duckett’s dismissal was the turning point of the match. Batting with composure and elegance, Duckett had constructed a superb innings, scoring 95 runs from 91 deliveries with 11 fours, setting a solid platform for England at 213/2. Just as Duckett was on the verge of reaching three figures, Labuschagne delivered a short ball outside off-stump, which held up on the pitch. In an attempt to drive the ball, Duckett mistimed it and ended up spooning a simple catch back to the bowler. Labuschagne gleefully accepted the catch, celebrating the prized wicket as Duckett was left in disbelief. His dismissal came at a crucial time for England, slowing down their run rate and leaving them 213/3 in the 33rd over.

    Here’s the video:

    Also READ: ENG vs AUS 2024, ODI Series: Broadcast & Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA, UK and other countries

    Marnus Labuschagne’s game-changing spell

    Labuschagne’s wicket of Duckett wasn’t a one-off stroke of luck. He followed it up by removing Harry Brook soon after, reducing England to 232/4. In just two overs, Labuschagne changed the complexion of the match, finishing with figures of 2/18. His second wicket, Brook, who had been playing aggressively with 39 runs off 31 balls, was another important scalp that halted England’s charge. Brook misjudged a delivery that stuck in the pitch. Attempting to play an aggressive shot, he ended up popping a simple return catch to Labuschagne, who reacted swiftly to take the catch by his bootstraps.

    England’s batting progress against Australia

    Though Duckett’s departure was a setback, England still had firepower to drive their innings forward. At the time of Labuschagne’s intervention, England had reached 240/4 in 36 overs. Duckett’s partnership with Will Jacks (62 off 56 balls) had earlier taken England to 168/2. Now, with Jamie Smith (9*) and Liam Livingstone (6*) at the crease, the hosts will be looking to regain momentum and aim for a competitive total closer to 350. However, Labuschagne’s key wickets mean Australia will feel they are still in with a strong chance of restricting England in the final phase of the innings.

    Also READ: ENG vs AUS 2024: Australia’s best XI for the ODI series against England



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  • ‘That’s living in England and playing cricket here’ – Ben Duckett defends umpires’ decision of calling players off the field for bad light

    ‘That’s living in England and playing cricket here’ – Ben Duckett defends umpires’ decision of calling players off the field for bad light

    While the English summer provides gripping moments of cricket with electrifying moments, it also brings about sluggish stretches when the light declines beyond the permissible level, similar to what unfolded on Day 1 of the third Test between England and Sri Lanka. 

    English opener, Ben Duckett, who scored a quickfire knock justified the on-field umpires escorting the players off the field for the second and final time, which got the crowd at the Kennington Oval agitated on them for missing out on the action. He also made it clear that as much as the ardent supporters would’ve wanted to receive full value for their money, it was the players who were in peril of getting injured at the end of the day. 

    “I think they saw quite a good day’s cricket in the short amount of time there was. That’s living in England and playing cricket in England, they’re the conditions. It’s very easy to sit there as a supporter and want to see more cricket but if it does get really dark and more dangerous, we’re the ones out there playing. I did make a joke saying if they wanted to bowl double spinners before lunch they could do. They weren’t conditions for that. Both sides did it at Old Trafford, went double spin, but when the lights were on and the ball was nipping around a bit, the umpires were taking us off and we’re going to have to go with their rules,” reflected Duckett at the end of the day, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

    Duckett also mentioned The Ashes in his statement while speaking about the need to get off the field as per the situation. He acknowledged that nowadays, the onus is on the umpires to take a call, unlike earlier times.

    “I’m sure if it was that same Aussie attack last summer, bowling in those conditions, you’d probably want to get off the field. It does have a big impact when those lights are on and they’re fully on and the ball starts swinging and nipping around a bit more. To be honest, it’s got nothing to do us. You don’t really get the option anymore. If the umpires take you off, you’ve got to go with their decision,” mentioned Duckett.

    Also Read: Twitter Reactions: England pull strong start against Sri Lanka on Day 1 of The Oval Test

    Coming to the day’s play, there were clear signs of England attacking the Sri Lankan bowlers who failed to capitalize on the overcast conditions presented to them post winning the toss and opting to bowl first. Ollie Pope brought up his 7th Test ton, registering it against the seventh different nation in his red-ball career up until now. Duckett too, earlier, was looking all set to stockpile an assertive century but departed for an enterprising knock that had the crowd rise to their feet. 

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  • England stars dominate with 14 picks in BBL 2024 draft ; Usama Mir sole Pakistani cricketer selected

    England stars dominate with 14 picks in BBL 2024 draft ; Usama Mir sole Pakistani cricketer selected

    The Player drafts for Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL) and Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) concluded on September 1. Teams showed high demand for English cricketers, picking 14 of them, while Usama Mir from Pakistan and Rishad Hossain from Bangladesh were the only Asian players selected.

    The Big Bash League has become a major T20 tournament in Australia since its inception in 2011. However, the tournament has slipped down the pecking order a bit over the years. The upcoming edition of the BBL tournament will commence on December 15, with the final set for January 27.

    England Opener Ben Duckett No.1 Pick In BBL Draft

    England opener Ben Duckett was selected as the No. 1 pick in the overseas player draft for this summer’s Big Bash League. Duckett is currently playing for England in the Test series against Sri Lanka. The left-handed batter will join the Melbourne Stars franchise on a platinum contract.

    Sydney Sixers retained James Vince as their pick in the player draft. Vince stayed with the Sixers despite the Melbourne Renegades attempting to sign him.

    The Melbourne Renegades selected Laurie Evans, and Sydney Thunder picked New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson.

    Shai Hope joined the Hobart Hurricanes for the upcoming season, while Jamie Overton was picked by the Adelaide Strikers. The Brisbane Heat and Perth Scorchers retained their pre-signed players, Colin Munro and Finn Allen, respectively.

    Usama Mir Sole Pakistan Player Selected In BBL Draft

    In the second round of the draft, the Melbourne Stars picked Tom Curran. The Renegades selected England all-rounder Jacob Bethell. Other pre-signed players are Ollie Pope by the Adelaide Strikers, Chris Jordan by the Hurricanes, Sam Billings by the Sydney Thunder, and Akeal Hosein by the Sixers.

    In the third round of the draft, the Adelaide Strikers picked West Indian Fabian Allen, while the Hobart Hurricanes passed. The Sydney Thunder selected West Indian Sherfane Rutherford, the Melbourne Renegades chose their pre-signed player, Tim Seifert, and the Melbourne Stars picked Usama Mir.

    In the fourth round of the draft, the Hobart Hurricanes selected Bangladeshi legspinner Rishad Hossain with their final pick. The Brisbane Heat picked Tom Alsop. Perth Scorchers signed Keaton Jennings, and the Sydney Sixers picked Jafer Chohan as their last pick of the draft for the BBL 2024-25.

    First-round picks in BBL draft: Ben Duckett – Melbourne Stars, James Vince – Sydney Sixers (Retention), Laurie Evans – Melbourne Renegades, Lockie Ferguson – Sydney Thunder, Shai Hope – Hobart Hurricanes, Jamie Overton – Adelaide Strikers (Retention), Colin Munro – Brisbane Heat (pre-signed player), Finn Allen – Perth Scorchers (pre-signed player)

    Second-round picks: Tom Curran – Melbourne Stars (pre-signed player), Jacob Bethell – Melbourne Renegades, Ollie Pope – Adelaide Strikers (pre-signed player), Hobart Hurricanes – Chris Jordan (pre-signed player), Sam Billings – Sydney Thunder (pre-signed player), Paul Walter – Brisbane Heat, Passed – Perth Scorchers, Akeal Hosein – Sydney Sixers (pre-signed player)

    Third-round picks: Matthew Hurst – Perth Scorchers, Fabian Allen – Adelaide Strikers, Sherfane Rutherford – Sydney Thunder, Tim Seifert – Melbourne Renegades (pre-signed player), Usama Mir – Melbourne Stars

    Fourth-round picks: Rishad Hossain – Hobart Hurricanes, Brisbane Heat – Tom Alsop, Keaton Jennings – Perth Scorchers, Jafer Chohan – Sydney Sixers

    Also read: Watch: Khurram Shahzad on fire as he dismisses Shadman Islam and Najmul Hossain Shanto in the same over

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  • Fans react as Ben Duckett, Harry Brook put England in commanding position on Day 3 of the 2nd Test against West Indies

    Fans react as Ben Duckett, Harry Brook put England in commanding position on Day 3 of the 2nd Test against West Indies

    Another entertaining day ended in the second Test between England and West Indies at Trent Bridge in Nottingham. The visitors faced early trouble this morning, losing some quick wickets and teetering on the brink of conceding a lead. However, a brilliant last-wicket partnership between Joshua Da Silva and Shamar Joseph turned the tables. The pair added a crucial 71 runs off 78 balls, helping their side gain a 41-run lead and injecting life back into the contest.

    Positive response from English batters

    In response, the English batters showcased a positive approach. Despite Zak Crawley’s unfortunate run-out, Ben Duckett (76) and Ollie Pope (51) steadied the innings. Mixing caution with aggression, both batters smashed their half-centuries and were in excellent form, setting a solid foundation for England’s innings.

    Change of ball shakes things up

    However, a change of ball midway through the innings altered the game’s momentum. Alzarri Joseph found new life with the ball, taking advantage of the change to dismiss both Duckett and Pope in quick succession. This sudden shift in the match put England under pressure once again.

    Harry Brook to the rescue

    Despite the setbacks, Harry Brook (71 no) stepped up for England. He played a vital role in stabilizing the innings, scoring quick runs and keeping the scoreboard ticking. Alongside Joe Root (37 no), who was tentative at times but managed to weather the tricky phase, Brook ensured England maintained their position of strength.

    Also WATCH: ENG vs WI – Ben Stokes shakes his head in frustration after Zak Crawley’s unfortunate run out in the 2nd Test

    England in command with a big lead

    As the day ended, England led by 207 runs, holding the upper hand in this engrossing Test match. The West Indies pacers put in a decent effort but lacked the penetration needed to consistently trouble the English batters. With a lot of time left in this Test, the fourth day promises more intense cricket. The key will be which side can absorb the pressure better as the match progresses.

    Here is how fans reacted:

    Also WATCH: ENG vs WI – Shamar Joseph breaks Trent Bridge stadium’s roof with a gigantic six on Day 3 of the 2nd Test



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  • Twitter Reactions: England put on another Bazball masterclass to dominate Day 3 of Trent Bridge Test

    Twitter Reactions: England put on another Bazball masterclass to dominate Day 3 of Trent Bridge Test

    England bounced back strongly on Day 3 of the second Test in Nottingham to take a second innings lead of 207, with seven wickets in the bank. This was after the West Indies took a handy first innings lead of 41 runs in the first session.

    Day 3 provided engrossing cricket once again as both teams gave their best efforts to wrestle the initiative in their favour. However, the hosts would be the happier team with the healthy lead they have already mustered.

    The tourists started the day at 351/5, with Jason Holder and Joshua Da Silva at the crease. England got off to a great start as they dismissed the former West Indies captain in the third over of the day. Kevin Sinclair also fell cheaply before Alzarri Joseph stiched a handy 24-run partnership with Da Silva. However, Chris Woakes dismissed Joseph and Jayden Seales off consecutive deliveries as the West indies slumped to 386/9.

    Also Read: Jofra Archer is desperate to get back in Test shirt for England: Ben Stokes

    England would have hoped to dismiss the Windies below 400 but an enterprising display from Shamar Joseph (33) and Joshua kept them at bay for 78 deliveries, adding 71 runs. The West indies wicketkeeper remained stranded on 82, while Woakes bagged a four-for.

    Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope impress again as England take ascendancy

    The West Indies got a lucky breakthrough at the start of England’s second innings as Zak Crawley was run out at the non-striker’s end after backing up too far. However, Ben Duckett (76) and Ollie Pope (51) once again stitched a sensational partnership to put England in a decent position. Their 119-run stand came off just 143 balls. Pope got out soon after reaching his half-century and Duckett also departed soon after.

    Also Read: ‘It was brutal and not every day you rock up and face someone’ – Kavem Hodge shares his experience of facing Mark Wood

    However, Joe Root and Harry Brook put on an unbeaten 108-run stand off 142 balls to take England into a position of strength. At the end of the day, the Three Lions finished on 248/3, with Root and Brook remaining unbeaten on 37 and 71, respectively.

    Here’s how ‘X’ users reacted to the fascinating action on Day 3:

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  • Twitter Reactions: Ollie Pope flexes muscles as England smash 416 on Day 1

    Twitter Reactions: Ollie Pope flexes muscles as England smash 416 on Day 1

    The second Test in the three-match series between England and the West Indies began at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, on Thursday, July 18. After the West Indies won the toss and opted to bowl first, England produced a scintillating batting display, headlined by Ollie Pope, Ben Duckett, and Ben Stokes.

    Alzarri Joseph gave the tourists the ideal start as he dismissed Zak Crawley off the third ball of the match. However, Duckett and Pope joined forces and helped England break their own record for the fastest team 50 in Test cricket, reaching the landmark in just 26 balls. The southpaw was the more aggressive batter in a 105-run partnership, which came off just 112 balls.

    Also Read: England amass fastest team Test fifty in 26 balls against West Indies

    Duckett notched up his half-century off just 32 balls, fastest for an England opener in the Test arena. He got out for a 59-ball 71 after belting 14 boundaries. Pope, however, went on displaying his wide range of strokes and brought up his century in the second session. Alzarri ended his fluent knock of 121 off 167 deliveries after he had hit 15 fours and a solitary six.

    Root was dismissed cheaply but Harry Brook played a breezy 36-run knock off 34 balls. Stokes contributed nicely as he slammed a 104-ball 69 before being dismissed by Kavem Hodge. Jamie Smith and Chris Woakes got starts but departed for 36 (54) and 37 (48), respectively.

    Also Read: ‘It’s simple, we’ve just got to put runs on the board’ – Kraigg Brathwaite optimistic about Windies’ chances in 2nd Test vs England

    After reaching a commanding 281/4, it seemed that England would not be dismissed below the 400-run mark, however it did seem so when they slipped to 370/8. However, Woakes’ contribution helped them get to 416 before being bowled out in the penultimate over of the day.

    The West Indies wouldn’t be too unhappy with themselves because they managed to pick wickets throughout the day but they conceded a few too many runs for their liking. Kraigg Brathwaite will rue the chances that his side put down during the day as England could have been dismissed much earlier. However, the visitors will need to put the disappointing fielding effort behind them and look to put on a solid batting show on Day 2.

    Here’s how ‘X’ users reacted to the action on Day 1:

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  • Netizens react as Ollie Pope leads England’s batting brilliance on Day 1 of the 2nd Test against West Indies

    Netizens react as Ollie Pope leads England’s batting brilliance on Day 1 of the 2nd Test against West Indies

    The opening day of the second Test between England and West Indies at Trent Bridge saw an exhilarating display of batting from the home team. Under the aggressive Bazball approach, England amassed a total of 400 runs in a single day, setting a high standard for the rest of the match. The hosts displayed relentless aggression, captivating fans with their bold stroke play and aggressive running between the wickets.

    Ben Duckett provides a strong start

    England’s innings began with a flurry of boundaries from opener Ben Duckett. His attacking intent was evident from the outset as he dismantled the West Indies bowling attack. Duckett’s innings of 71 set the tone for England’s dominance, providing a solid foundation for the middle order. His aggressive start put the West Indies on the back foot early in the game.

    Ollie Pope shines with a stunning ton

    The highlight of the day was Ollie Pope’s magnificent century. Coming in after the early loss of Zak Crawley, Pope stabilized the innings and then accelerated, bringing up his sixth Test century. He played a superb knock of 121 runs, playing both aggressive and cautious cricket as required. Pope’s innings was crucial in ensuring England capitalized on the strong start provided by Duckett.

    Captain Ben Stokes provides valuable contribution

    Adding to the batting heroics was England’s captain, Ben Stokes, who scored a well-crafted 69. Stokes’ innings added stability and momentum to England’s total, with valuable contributions throughout the order. He played with his usual aggressive flair, ensuring the scoring rate remained high and keeping the pressure on the West Indies bowlers.

    Also READ: Fans react as England star Ollie Pope hits a splendid century in the Trent Bridge Test against West Indies

    Big task ahead for West Indies batters

    Despite the initial onslaught, the West Indies bowlers managed to pull things back slightly in the last session, taking a few quick wickets and preventing England from extending their innings into the second day. However, the West Indies batters now face a daunting task on the second day, as they will have to contend with a well-rested and highly capable English bowling attack.

    Here is how Netizens reacted:

    https://twitter.com/88Brooky/status/1813992482750726600

    Also WATCH: ENG vs WI – Jason Holder plucks an incredible catch to dismiss Ben Duckett in the 2nd Test



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