Mark Wood’s sensational performance leads England to victory against West Indies
Ben Stokes, the England captain, hailed Mark Wood’s outstanding performance on Day 3 of the third Test at Edgbaston as the pacer’s five-wicket haul propelled England to a 3-0 series sweep against West Indies. Wood’s remarkable spell of five wickets for just nine runs in six overs played a vital role in wrapping up the game swiftly.
Wood’s remarkable turnaround
Despite a spirited fightback from West Indies at Lunch on Day 3, thanks to Mikyle Louis and Kavem Hodge’s half-centuries, Wood’s reverse swing magic in the second session changed the game’s course. Stokes praised Wood’s relentless effort and heart of a lion, emphasizing the importance of his pace and skill in blowing open the game for England.
Wood, named Player of the Match, credited a talk with bowling mentor James Anderson for his turnaround in mindset, focusing on the skill side rather than the outcome. His consistent speed and crucial breakthroughs helped England secure a convincing win.
Debutants shine as England refine their approach
Stokes also lauded debutants Gus Atkinson and Jamie Smith for their impressive performances in the series, with Atkinson finishing as the Player of the Series with 22 wickets and Smith showcasing his batting prowess. England’s refined batting approach was highlighted by Stokes, who emphasized the team’s ability to adapt under pressure and play smart cricket.
The second innings saw Stokes in T20 mode, smashing a 24-ball fifty, the quickest for England in Test cricket, surpassing Ian Botham and guiding England to victory in just 7.2 overs. Stokes’s explosive batting display sealed the series sweep against West Indies.