England’s dream debutant feels in the right space before CWC23
England’s Gus Atkinson had an international debut to remember. He struck in his very first over in the second T20I against New Zealand, accounting for Devon Conway. Later, he returned to pick three wickets in five balls, including that of New Zealand’s highest run-getter Tim Seifert.
He eventually finished at 4/20, in what was an assertive 95-run win for England.
He’s only one game into international cricket, but Atkinson is already touted highly by the England selectors. His remarkable rise is informed by his serious pace, which brought him into the limelight this summer.
This saw the youngster make his way into England’s provisional squad for the World Cup. He has only furthered his chances with this exceptional debut.
Speaking to ESPN Cricinfo, Atkinson believed that his county championship experience should hold him in good stead for the World Cup.
“I haven't played much 50-over cricket but I've played a bit of Championship cricket this year, so should be alright.”
While Atkinson’s rise in England cricket has been phenomenal, the pacer always believed that things could work out quickly for him.
“I knew that once I got going, it could happen quickly," Atkinson said. "I've always known my ability and what I can do. And I always knew once I had a chance with the games… The Hundred's a big opportunity and I knew if I could perform in that it would happen quickly and thankfully it has.”
He has been compared to England star Jofra Archer due to his exceptional pace. But this doesn't bother the pacer too much.
“Probably a year-and-a-half now (of being compared with Archer),” Atkinson said. “I don't like to think about that much to be honest.”
England already have a 2-0 lead in the four-game T20I series against New Zealand. The third match takes place at Birmingham on 3 September.
This four-match contest is followed by a four-ODI series against the same opponent. Atkinson is a part of that squad too.
