England have surged towards a series victory by dismantling the West Indies in a single session on the fourth day of the second Test at Trent Bridge. The hosts, set up by centuries from Joe Root and Harry Brook, showcased an exceptional all-round performance to secure a comprehensive win and an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

West Indies’ Collapse

Set a daunting target of 385 runs to win or four sessions to save the game, the West Indies’ batting lineup crumbled spectacularly from 61-0 to 82-5 in a manic blur of five wickets in six overs. Chris Woakes initiated the collapse by finding the edge to dismiss openers Mikyle Louis and Kraigg Brathwaite. Woakes’ disciplined line and length troubled the openers, leading to their downfall. Off-spinner Shoaib Bashir then delivered a mesmerizing spell, taking 3-8 in just 15 deliveries. His clever variations and turn proved too much for the West Indies’ middle order. The rapid succession of wickets left the West Indies in disarray, with the only question being whether the match would extend to the final day.

England’s Bowling Dominance

England’s bowlers maintained relentless pressure throughout the West Indies’ innings. Mark Wood used his pace to dismiss Kevin Sinclair with a sharp bouncer, demonstrating the hostile conditions the visitors faced. Gus Atkinson then struck twice in three balls, removing key batsmen and leaving the West Indies reeling. Bashir, who had already made significant inroads, took the final two wickets to end with impressive figures of 5-41. His spell was a masterclass in spin bowling, exploiting the pitch’s turn and bounce to devastating effect. The West Indies were bowled out for 143, resulting in a comprehensive 241-run victory for England.

Centuries by Root and Brook

England’s commanding position was built on centuries from Joe Root and Harry Brook. Root’s 122 marked his 32nd Test hundred, bringing him within one century of Sir Alastair Cook’s England record. His innings was a blend of classical stroke play and calm accumulation, anchoring England’s batting effort. Brook’s 109 was his first Test ton on home soil, a testament to his growing stature in international cricket. He played with flair and aggression, counter-attacking the West Indies’ bowlers and ensuring England maintained a brisk scoring rate. Despite a middle-order collapse where England lost 7-96, their substantial lead and rapid scoring provided Ben Stokes’ side with ample time to secure the win with a day to spare.

Historic Series Win

This victory secured England’s first series win since their tour of Pakistan in 2022. It was a significant achievement for the team, marking their resurgence in Test cricket under the leadership of Ben Stokes. The comprehensive nature of their victories in the first two Tests underscored the team’s dominance and the effectiveness of their strategies. They will aim for a 3-0 clean sweep when the final Test begins at Edgbaston on Friday, hoping to further assert their superiority and end the series on a high note.

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