Gus Atkinson, the latest addition to England’s fast-bowling arsenal, is proving that there’s more to him than just his unassuming demeanor.
As he reflects on his sensational debut at Lord’s, it’s easy to mistake his calm and collected nature for a lack of fire.
But those who underestimate him are in for a surprise.
Sitting in the Trent Bridge pavilion, Atkinson’s soft-spoken nature and shy smile seem at odds with the 90mph pace bowler who recently took 12 wickets for 106 runs against the West Indies.
He’s the kind of person who might not say much, even if a goose wandered by. Despite this, his performance on the field was anything but meek.
He almost overshadowed Jimmy Anderson’s final Test, apologizing for taking the last wicket and receiving a curt “f*** off” in return.
Atkinson remains remarkably humble about his achievements. “It’s quite likely it won’t ever happen again,” he says about his 12-wicket haul.
He acknowledges that his impressive start could be a rare peak and admits that he’s not getting carried away.
His approach to the game is all about staying focused and not letting early success cloud his judgment.
Atkinson’s family background is as fascinating as his cricketing career.
On his mother’s side, he’s related to the 10th Earl of Dundonald, Thomas Cochrane, who played a key role in Chile’s war of independence.
On his father’s side, Sir Henry Norris, a former MP, was instrumental in Arsenal’s move to North London and built thousands of homes in Fulham. Atkinson’s recent record-breaking debut in England’s fast-bowling history adds a new chapter to this storied heritage.
Overcoming Challenges
Despite his impressive debut, Atkinson’s journey hasn’t been smooth. Injuries and personal losses have tested his resolve.
The back stress fractures he suffered in 2017, 2018, and 2019 slowed his progress, and the tragic loss of his mother, Caroline, in a car crash in 2020 was a devastating blow.
Yet, he chose to channel his grief into his cricket, using it as motivation rather than letting it derail his career.
Finding Strength in Adversity
Atkinson’s father, Ed, notes that Gus’s ability to stay composed under pressure has been crucial.
Despite enduring tough times, including multiple injuries and personal loss, Gus has maintained a level of calm that will likely serve him well as he faces future challenges on the field.
His quiet leadership and confidence in his abilities are evident, even if they’re not always immediately apparent.
Looking Ahead
Gus Atkinson has set his sights high. He dreams of playing in an Ashes series, particularly in Australia, and is determined to stay true to himself.
He acknowledges that he’ll evolve as a bowler with experience, but his focus remains on performance rather than changing his natural demeanor.
A Bright Future
At just 26, Atkinson has already achieved a lot, with only 20 first-class matches under his belt and three five-wicket hauls to his name. He believes his time on the sidelines has kept him fresh and that there’s still plenty of room for improvement.
His family’s legacy of making a difference seems to be a trait he’s embracing as he writes his own cricketing story.
With a blend of resilience, humility, and a touch of historical greatness, Gus Atkinson is poised to make a lasting impact in the world of cricket.
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