NEW DELHI: England seamer Gus Atkinson achieved a remarkable milestone during the opening day of the third Test against New Zealand in Hamilton, cementing his place in an exclusive club with an impressive debut year in Test cricket.
Atkinson made a significant impact by breaking New Zealand’s 105-run opening stand, drawing first blood by forcing an outside edge off Will Young. Harry Brook, stationed at second slip, dived forward to take a sharp catch.
Later, Atkinson struck again, dismissing Daryl Mitchell with a well-timed effort from skipper Ben Stokes, who completed a brilliant diving catch. The 26-year-old continued to shine as he derailed a budding partnership between Mitchell Santner and Tim Southee.
Southee, playing his farewell Test, smashed three sixes in a short yet impactful 10-ball cameo before holing out to Brydon Carse off Atkinson’s delivery.
With Southee’s dismissal, Atkinson reached 51 Test wickets in 2024, his debut calendar year, the second-highest tally ever for a debutant. Australia’s Terry Alderman holds the record with 54 Test wickets in his debut year (1981). Atkinson surpassed pace legends Curtly Ambrose (49 wickets in 1988) and Jasprit Bumrah (48 wickets in 2018) in this achievement.
Notably, Atkinson is the first English bowler to claim 50 Test wickets in a calendar year since James Anderson, who bagged 55 wickets in 2017.
England faced early challenges after New Zealand openers Tom Latham (63) and Will Young (42) put up a commanding partnership. However, once Atkinson broke through, England’s disciplined line and length applied consistent pressure. From a strong position at 142/2, New Zealand slipped to 231/7 by stumps.
The day ended with Mitchell Santner unbeaten on 50*, providing a crucial stand alongside William O’Rourke.