The build-up to Atkinson international debut has been growing over the summer. During the Hundred, he was clocked at speeds of 95mph for Oval Invincibles, and has racked up some impressive performances for Surrey. He was the wildcard name in England’s provisional World Cup squad last month, and has drawn comparisons with Jofra Archer.

Against New Zealand in the second T20I of the four-match series, he was finally given a chance in an England shirt. After Harry Brook and Jonny Bairstow gave England a mammoth 198-run total with the bat, Atkinson finally got a go with the ball.

Brought on after Sam Curran’s first over, Atkinson made an immediate impact. His first ball was an 87mph loosener which Finn Allen played to mid-on for a single, bringing Conway on strike to face the full heat of Atkinson’s pace. The first ball to Conway was clocked at 92mph, beaten for pace and taking the inside edge to run away behind square for two runs. A dot followed.

Off his fourth ball, Atkinson got it spot on. He fired one in straight on Conway’s pads, which Conway looked to flip over deep square for the boundary. However, he didn’t get enough on the shot, and the ball fell straight down Liam Livingstone’s throat just inside the boundary rope.

Atkinson’s evening’s work got even better after he was brought back onto bowl the 14th over. He picked up Tim Seifert as his second wicket caught superbly by Jos Buttler, before trapping Tim Southee lbw in the same over. Off the very next ball, Atkinson castled Lockie Ferguson to claim his fourth and secure the best-ever figures for England on men’s T20I debut.

Watch: Gus Atkinson takes maiden international wicket below

Gus Atkinson has his first international wicket! ☝️#ENGvNZpic.twitter.com/j30pCEbPp5

— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) September 1, 2023