Angus Alexander Patrick Atkinson is yet another right-arm fast bowler produced by England who can consistently bowl in the high 140s. Born on January 19, 1998, Atkinson possesses the skills of making the ball move both ways while he can also add crucail runs down the order. Angus Atkinson's journey in cricket began with humble origins. He developed his cricketing skills in the nurturing cricket environments of England, where his talent quickly caught the eye of selectors and cricket enthusiasts. His potential to make a significant impact in the sport became evident at a young age.
Atkinson's entry into the domestic cricket scene was through Surrey, one of England's prominent county cricket teams. He made his first-class debut for Surrey in August 2020 during the 2020 Bob Willis Trophy, signaling the start of his professional career. His debut demonstrated his capabilities as a cricketer poised to excel at the highest level. In the Twenty20 format, he made his debut for Surrey in the 2020 T20 Blast, showcasing his adaptability and ability to handle the fast-paced nature of T20 cricket. He also ventured into List A cricket, representing Surrey in the 2021 Royal London One-Day Cup, gaining valuable experience in the 50-over format. Atkinson's talent didn't go unnoticed in franchise cricket. He was acquired by the Oval Invincibles for the 2022 season of The Hundred, a testament to his growing stature as a dynamic player in the format. His pivotal role in Surrey's County Championship victory in 2022 further underscored his value as a cricketer. In 2023, Atkinson's commitment to Surrey was reaffirmed as he signed a multi-year contract extension, indicating his potential to be a long-term asset for the team.
Atkinson's impressive performances in domestic cricket led to his call-up to the senior England cricket team in August 2023 for the ODI and T20I series against New Zealand. His debut in the T20I format in September 2023 was nothing short of remarkable. Atkinson recorded figures of 4/20, the best by an England men's bowler on his T20I debut back then, showcasing his match-winning abilities. In a testament to his rapid rise, Angus Atkinson was named in the England squad for the 2023 ODI World Cup in India, emphasizing his consistency and ability to perform under pressure.
Atkinson had to wait till 2024 to make his Test debut, but it was worth it. He picked up 7 wickets in the first innings and followed it up with another 5 in the second to secure a resounding victory for England over West Indies and a perfect sendoff for the outgoing, James Anderson. His 12/106 were also the best figures by an English debutant in 134 years, as he also made it to the Lord's honours boards. He ended up with 22 wickets in three games and won the player of the series award. Atkinson then wowed everyone with the bat as he scored his maiden first-class hundred in the second Test against Sri Lanka, once again at Lords. He then went on to pick up a five-wicket haul, becoming only the third England player to score a ton and get a five-for in the same Test match. He was named England Player of the Year at the 2024 Cricket Writer's Club Awards. Atkinson did not stop there, as he then registered a hat-trick in a Test match against New Zealand towards the end of 2024.
