England‘s Joe Root continued to dazzle with the bat, playing yet another crucial knock for his side in the second Test against Sri Lanka at Lord’s. Root’s composed innings set the foundation for England’s strong position. But while Root’s magic with the bat was a familiar sight, it was the performance of pacer Gus Atkinson that stole the spotlight, with Root himself showering praise on the emerging all-rounder.

Joe Root continues his magic with the bat

Root’s form with the bat remained impeccable as he once again played a vital innings for England. Coming in at a tricky situation, Root anchored the innings and ensured that England weathered the initial storm from the Sri Lankan bowlers. His brilliant ton at a crucial juncture, helping the team recover from 216/6 to a more comfortable position by the end of Day 1. Root’s resilience and class were on full display as he effortlessly handled the challenging conditions at Lord’s.

Root heaps praises on Gus Atkinson

While Root played a major role in stabilizing England’s innings, he was full of praise for Atkinson, whose exceptional performance changed the momentum of the match. Atkinson, who came in to bat with England struggling, smashed his maiden Test half-century, finishing Day 1 unbeaten on 74. In a video shared by the ECB, Root expressed his admiration for Atkinson’s innings, noting how the young pacer played with remarkable composure and power. Root highlighted Atkinson’s ability to turn the game around with his explosive batting.

Also READ: “I was very lucky to have someone like him”: Joe Root dedicates his 33rd Test ton to the late cricketer

Root draws comparison with South African legend

Root’s praise for Atkinson did not stop at merely acknowledging his brilliance. The former England captain went a step further, comparing Atkinson’s batting heroics to those of South African legend Jacques Kallis.

“I’ll tell you why I was good watching Gussy (Gus Atkinson) bat at the end, being at the other end when he hit those straight sixes, they were unbelievable. It’s like watching someone like Jacques Kallis play. It was a great little innings from him, and there was some good partnerships along the way and we’ve found ourselves in a really good position now,” said Root.

Atkinson hits maiden Test ton

The Day 2 saw Atkinson continue his stellar form with the bat, as he converted his overnight score into a maiden Test century. The 26-year-old reached the milestone in just 103 deliveries, adding his name to the prestigious Lord’s Honors Board.

Atkinson, who had already made headlines with his bowling debut at Lord’s last month, further cemented his place in the team with his all-round capabilities. Known for his bowling prowess, Atkinson’s century was his first in any format, underlining his growing influence as a key player for England in both batting and bowling departments.

Also READ: ENG vs SL – Netizens celebrate as Gus Atkinson hits his maiden ton at iconic Lord’s on Day 2 of the 2nd Test

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