S Poddar
West Indies 121 & 79-6; England 371 – lead by 171 runs
After two days of dominant play at Lord’s, the third day seems set to mark Jimmy Anderson’s final appearance in Test cricket. West Indies need a monumental comeback to change the trajectory of this match. While weekend ticket holders will hope for a miracle, it’s as likely as England reconsidering their decision to retire their legendary seam bowler.
Anderson himself contributed to speeding up his departure late on Thursday, taking two crucial wickets as the West Indies stumbled to 79 for six. Bowled out for 121 in their first innings and conceding 371 in response, thanks to Jamie Smith’s 70 on debut, the West Indies face a daunting 171-run deficit. They need an extraordinary performance or three days of uninterrupted rain to avoid going 1-0 down in the series.
The remaining questions are about the final scoreline and Anderson’s final wicket tally. Starting the day with 703 wickets, the 41-year-old claimed Kraigg Brathwaite’s wicket with a superb delivery and then got Alick Athanaze to edge behind. Anderson could potentially take four more wickets, leaving Shane Warne’s record of 708 just out of reach.
Anderson didn’t mind Gus Atkinson denying him a shot at second place on the all-time list. Atkinson, following his seven-wicket haul on day one, added two more, including dismissing Kavem Hodge and Jason Holder. His performance highlighted his potential and pace, especially on a sluggish pitch.
Ben Stokes also shone, taking the wickets of Kirk McKenzie and Mikyle Louis in a 10-over spell, surpassing 200 Test wickets. This achievement puts him in elite company with Garfield Sobers and Jacques Kallis, combining this feat with over 6,000 Test runs.
Jamie Smith’s debut for England was another highlight. Expected to be a future star, the 23-year-old right-hander showcased his skills with a half-century, extending England’s lead significantly. Smith’s blend of technical precision and elegance suggests he may have a bright future higher up the order.
England’s decision to replace Jonny Bairstow as wicketkeeper with Smith was informed by past performances, including a failed run chase in Wellington and a loss to India in Ranchi. Smith’s performance here, particularly with the tail, justified this decision.
After England lost Stokes and Joe Root to Gudakesh Motie’s spin before lunch, Smith built his innings patiently. He began to assert himself after Chris Woakes’ dismissal, hitting sixes off Shamar Joseph and Jayden Seales. A run-out ended Bashir’s resistance, bringing Anderson to the crease for his 265th and final time.
The crowd hoped for a spectacular finish, but Smith was dismissed, leaving Anderson without facing. Anderson soon compensated by taking more wickets, setting up an emotional final day.
