James Anderson Takes Two Wickets in Final Innings to Propel England Toward Victory in First Test at Lord’s

James Anderson picked two wickets on the second evening // Getty Images

England maintained their stronghold on the Test match against West Indies, ending Day 2 in a commanding position. With the visitors struggling at 79/6, England leads by 171 runs, eyeing an imminent victory and a fitting farewell for cricket legend James Anderson.

Resuming the day at 301/6, Joe Root and Harry Brook continued their overnight partnership, adding valuable runs. Brook's aggressive stroke play earned him a quick fifty, while Root remained steady, notching his 62nd Test half-century. Alzarri Joseph eventually dismissed Brook for 50, breaking their 91-run stand.

Gudakesh Motie then struck twice, removing Ben Stokes for 4 and Root for 68 just before lunch. Debutant Jamie Smith showcased his batting prowess, scoring 70 off 119 balls. He shared a crucial 52-run partnership with Chris Woakes (23) before Jayden Seales and Jason Holder wrapped up the tail. Seales impressed with figures of 4/77, while Holder and Motie claimed two wickets each, restricting England to 371.

James Anderson's opening spell set the tone for England's bowling attack, dismissing Kraigg Brathwaite early. Ben Stokes trapped Kirk McKenzie lbw for a duck, celebrating his 200th Test wicket. Despite some resistance from Alick Athanaze (22) and Jason Holder (20), England's bowlers struck regularly. Anderson, with his second wicket, and Gus Atkinson, who removed Holder in the final over, ensured West Indies faced an uphill task.

Match Summary !!

Day 2 - Stumps / Sky Sports

With an innings defeat looming, West Indies must produce something extraordinary on Day 3 to stay in the game.

Jimmy Anderson leading the England boys off to a standing ovation at Lord's.