England took control of the second Test against West Indies at Trent Bridge on Saturday, building a commanding 207-run lead after a dominant batting display. The hosts, who had initially trailed by 41 runs after West Indies’ first innings, were led by half-centuries from Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, and Harry Brook, who were instrumental in turning the tide.
Duckett, who scored 76 runs, played a crucial role in laying the foundation for England’s resurgence. He struck 11 boundaries before being dismissed by Alzarri Joseph. Pope, who had scored a century in the first innings, continued his good form with a well-crafted 51 before being caught by Kevin Sinclair off Joseph.
However, the highlight of England’s innings was the unbroken partnership of 108 runs between Harry Brook and Joe Root. Brook, who remained unbeaten on 71, displayed his class and composure, while Root, who was 37 not out at the close of play, provided solid support.
The day began with England picking up four wickets in the morning session, putting them in a strong position to take a first-innings lead. However, a late flourish from West Indies, fueled by a thrilling last-wicket partnership of 71 between Joshua Da Silva and Shamar Joseph, turned the momentum in their favor.
Da Silva, who finished unbeaten on 82, including three sixes, and Joseph, who hit two maximums, one smashing tiles on the pavilion roof, in his 33, gave West Indies a glimmer of hope. But England’s bowlers eventually dismissed the West Indies tail, setting the stage for their own batting brilliance.
England’s victory in the first Test at Lord’s by an innings and 114 runs had set the tone for the series, and their dominant performance on the third day at Trent Bridge suggests they are well on their way to another win.
