Former England captain Joe Root heaped praise on teammate Harry Brook following the young batter’s scintillating back-to-back centuries against New Zealand in the ongoing Test series. At just 25, Brook has established himself as a formidable force in international cricket. Earlier this year, he showcased his class by smashing a triple century against Pakistan, further solidifying his reputation as a match-winner.
Harry Brook’s overall record in Test cricket is remarkable—2280 runs in 23 matches at an astounding average of 61.2, making him one of the most consistent players in the modern era. Impressed by Brook’s stellar performances, Root didn’t hold back in his admiration, labelling him the best player in the world currently.
Joe Root highlighted Brook’s ability to handle pressure, his expansive range of strokes, and his knack for putting bowlers on the back foot. Among Brook’s many impressive shots, Root singled out his audacious scoop over the wicketkeeper for six, a testament to his fearless and innovative batting style.
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“Brookie (Brook) is by far and away the best player in the world at the minute,” Joe Root said in an interview with ESPN. “He can absorb pressure, apply it, and play shots all around the wicket. Whether it’s whacking it for six or scooping over the head, he does it all with ease.”
Brook, however, was quick to return the compliment while expressing his admiration for Root’s achievements. He jokingly admitted he was aiming to overtake Root as England’s best batter but acknowledged the challenge of competing with someone of Root’s calibre. Brook, who has already had a standout year with 1470 runs at an average of 56.53 in 16 matches, remains grounded despite his rapid rise.
“Trying to catch him (Root) is tough,” Harry Brook admitted. “He’s one of the best, if not the best, to have ever played the game. I’ve only played 23 matches, so those stats could change quickly. My focus is on constant improvement—working hard in the nets, addressing weaknesses, and staying consistent.”
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The camaraderie and mutual respect between Root and Brook underline a promising future for England’s batting lineup, with both players pushing each other to greater heights.
