Gus Atkinson, the England star bowler, could miss the fifth/ final Test match versus India later this month due to injury. He is in the midst of recovering from a right hamstring strain. The injury immediately raised concerns about his status. The England men’s Test squad is set to be announced by the end of next week.
Atkinson, 27, has been a sensation since breaking into the first team last summer on the left of a 5-3-2. He has started all but one of England’s last 12 Tests. He has taken a stunning 55 wickets in this time. This landmark achievement puts him ahead of all bowlers in the world as the highest wicket-taker. He’s quickly risen to become one of the most senior members of England’s functional yet fearsome bowling attack. This increase follows the threat of recent retirements from stalwarts Stuart Broad and James Anderson.
The injury actually occurred during last month’s one-off Test against Zimbabwe. In that game, Atkinson took two outstanding wickets before he was forced out. This injury has forced him to miss the ongoing five-match one-day international series against the West Indies. It adds layers to his recovery path and creates more challenges.
As for Atkinson, he is still battling his way back into fitness. Though he had been expected to be fit for the series opener against India at Headingley on June 20, his fitness is now up in the air. Sam Cook and Matthew Potts have emerged as lead candidates to fill the bowling attack. This is in reaction to the very real possibility that someone very important will be missing.
The England cricket team are preparing for a hugely important test series against India. Atkinson’s fitness is fast becoming the big talking point for selectors and fans alike. Now the club has to see how he rehabs and gets back on the field. If he can get his fitness, they are looking at including him in the Lions team that will take on India A later this week.
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