West Indies vs England 2024 has already become an exciting clash, with Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope leading England to a strong start on the opening day of the second Test at Trent Bridge. England reached 134 for 2 at lunch, thanks to Duckett’s explosive 71 off 59 balls and Pope’s unbeaten 47.
Dream Start for West Indies
West Indies won the toss and opted to bowl, a decision that initially paid off. Alzarri Joseph claimed a wicket off the third ball of the match, dismissing Zak Crawley with a back-of-a-length delivery that Alick Athanaze caught at third slip. However, Duckett and Pope formed a crucial 105-run partnership off 112 balls, stabilizing England’s innings.
Duckett’s Boundary Assault
Duckett’s innings was a masterclass in aggressive batting. Despite the imminent arrival of his first child, he was supremely focused. In the second over, he hit Jayden Seales for four consecutive boundaries, showcasing his wide range of shots with extra cover drives, cuts, and clips through midwicket. Duckett continued his assault, bringing up England’s 50 in just 26 balls, the fastest for any team in Tests. His 50 came off just 32 balls, guiding Jason Holder through deep third.
Pope’s Steady Hand
While Duckett attacked, Pope played a steady hand, building his innings carefully. He even pulled Joseph into the stands for six, moving to 43, and survived a dropped catch on 46 just before lunch. At the break, Pope remained unbeaten on 47, joined by Joe Root, who was 13 not out.
Changes in the Teams
Both teams made one change each for this match. West Indies brought in Kevin Sinclair for Gudakesh Motie, who was unwell on the morning of the match. England replaced the retired James Anderson with Mark Wood.
West Indies Find Control
After the drinks break, Sinclair and Shamar Joseph found some control for the West Indies. However, Duckett continued to find boundaries, sweeping Sinclair and punishing a wide delivery from Joseph through the covers. Joseph eventually got his reward, drawing an outside edge from Duckett that Holder caught at second slip.
Pope Survives
Pope, having played confidently, was given a lifeline when Athanaze failed to hold onto a hard-hit delivery off Seales at wide gully. As lunch was called, England looked well-placed, with Pope and Root at the crease, setting up an exciting continuation of the match.
Source: ESPN Cricinfo
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