Last Updated on 19 seconds ago by Charbel Coorey
Harry Brook’s magnificent run in T20 cricket continued, smashing 114* off 49 balls to lead England to a thumping 119-run win over Sri Lanka in the first T20I at Southampton on Tuesday.
Fans, pundits and former players were in awe of Brook’s shot selection. He hit 10 fours and six sixes as Sri Lanka had no answer. If they want full. After compensating and bringing the length back, Brook then dominated off the backfoot as well with his fast hands the hallmark of his excellent ball-striking.
Brook took on Dunith Wellalage early in his innings, hitting a remarkable 30 off the fifth over despite having faced just five deliveries previously.
Jos Buttler then dominated proceedings in the early stages of the middle overs with Brook reaching his 50 off just 20 balls. Once Buttler was dismissed for 80 off 44 balls, Brook took over, bringing up his hundred off just 42 balls. He hit 58 off his last 24 balls to lead England to a mammoth 254/4.
Ben Stokes ignites Harry Brook vs. Kevin Pietersen debate
Ben Stokes took to social media to express his thoughts on Harry Brook’s brilliance. He wrote that even Kevin Pietersen at his best does not come close to Brook when it comes to talent.
Pietersen recently returned to England Cricket as a specialist mentor for the white-ball teams.
“I don’t even think the genius of KP [Kevin Pietersen] could come close to what Harry Brook has talent-wise,” Stokes wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“Is it really that hard to just sit back and admire these players for what they are, on the good days and the bad days, and stop berating them for doing things that we would never, ever, ever even think of doing because we simply aren’t on their level to think that way?
“You are an absolute freak, Harry.
“You’re mint to watch.”
Predictably, Stokes’ words caused a stir. Pietersen burst onto the scene in superb style in 2000s, famously taking on the great Australian attack in the 2005 Ashes to announce his arrival in Test cricket. His maiden ODI century in South Africa was also reflective of his abundant talent.
Fans who argue for Pietersen point to those moments. However, fans also agree with Stokes’ sentiments given Brook’s record across three formats.
Here are some of the reactions.
