Gus Atkinson’s rapid rise from promising school cricketer to England’s latest Test squad addition for the Lord’s Test has captured the imagination of cricket fans and pundits alike. Renowned for his express pace and ability to contribute with the bat, Atkinson is now being hailed as one of the most exciting all-round prospects in English cricket. With his inclusion for the prestigious Lord’s Test, here’s a comprehensive look at the journey and achievements of this dynamic cricketer.

Early Life: Foundations in Wandsworth

Born on January 19, 1998, in Wandsworth, London, Angus Alexander Patrick Atkinson grew up in a family that valued both education and sport. He attended Northcote Lodge and later Bradfield College, where his cricketing talent began to shine. Atkinson’s early years were marked by a strong support system, though tragedy struck in 2020 with the loss of his mother, Carolinein a car accident, a formative event that shaped his resilience and determination.

School cricket: The making of a young star

Atkinson’s passion for cricket was evident from childhood, playing in his locality and later representing Bradfield College in school competitions from 2013 to 2016. He was a standout performer for Bradfield College Under-17 and the Bradfield Waifs, earning recognition for his raw pace and competitive spirit. His school years also included stints with Surrey’s age-group teams, where he consistently impressed coaches with his work ethic and natural ability.

Domestic cricket: Rising through the ranks

Atkinson’s journey through domestic cricket began with Surrey’s youth sides and culminated in his first-class debut for Surrey in August 2020 during the Bob Willis Trophy. He quickly followed up with T20 and List A debuts in the same year and 2021, respectively. Despite setbacks from three successive stress fractures between 2017 and 2019, Atkinson’s perseverance paid off as he became a key figure in Surrey’s 2022 County Championship-winning squad. His performances in The Hundred for Southern Brave and Invincible oval further elevated his profile, with his bowling regularly clocking speeds above 90 mph (144 kph).

International debut: Making history for England

Atkinson’s international breakthrough came in September 2023, making his T20I debut against New Zealand and immediately setting a record for the best bowling figures by an England debutant, 4 wickets for 20 runs. His ODI debut followed soon after, and he was part of England’s squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup in Indiawhere he took 4 wickets in three matches. Known for his fiery pace and wicket-taking ability, Atkinson drew comparisons to Jofra Archer and quickly became a regular feature in England’s squads across formats.

Recent form and the Lord’s Test call-up

By mid-2025, Atkinson had played 12 Tests, taking 55 wickets at an impressive average of 22.31, including three five-wicket hauls and a best of 7 for 45. His ability to contribute with the bat, scoring a Test century, has cemented his status as a genuine all-rounder. After missing the first two marquee Test matches against India, his recall to the England squad for the Lord’s Test is seen as a move to inject pace and versatility into the side, with selectors and fans eager to see his impact on the grandest stage.

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