England’s Harry Brook has earned high praise from former captain Nasser Hussain for his unique and effective batting style, particularly his distinctive “charge” shot in Test cricket.
Brook’s Impact at Edgbaston
Harry Brook played a crucial role in England’s counter-attack against India during the Edgbaston Test. After an early collapse, his record-breaking 303-run partnership with Jamie Smith helped steady the innings.
Brook showcased his incredible talent by reaching his ninth Test century in just 44 innings. This makes him the fastest England batter to achieve this feat in 96 years, since Herbert Sutcliffe.
His Test average now impressively stands above 60, placing him among the elite. Among active players with at least 20 innings, he boasts the second-highest Test average, only trailing Herbert Sutcliffe among all Englishmen.
Nasser Hussain on Brook’s Composure
Nasser Hussain highlighted Brook’s remarkable ability to perform under pressure. He noted that Brook frequently walks to the crease with England in trouble, often at scores like 45 for three or 25 for three, yet he consistently delivers.
Hussain praised Brook’s calm and composed demeanor, especially during his partnership with Jamie Smith. He observed that Brook maintained his own tempo, even when Smith accelerated quickly, calling it “Bazball at its smartest.”
Brook is not a one-dimensional player. He’s a thinking cricketer who adapts his game. While he’s had moments where he might have been “sucked into things,” he consistently finds ways to play to his strengths.
The Signature “Charge” Shot
One particular shot that caught Hussain’s attention is Brook’s tactic of charging down the pitch to fast bowlers. This isn’t a reckless move but a calculated strategy.
Brook uses this “charge” to intentionally put bowlers off their rhythm and force them to alter their conventional lengths. There’s a clear method behind this apparent madness.
Why Brook’s Method Works
The statistics speak for themselves: Brook has attempted this shot 32 times, yielding 92 runs, and remarkably, he has never been dismissed while playing it.
Hussain explained that Brook charges because he recognizes a specific length—around seven meters down the pitch—that makes him uncomfortable. By advancing, he takes the bowler off that ideal length, effectively turning a potential threat into an opportunity.
This intelligent approach demonstrates Brook’s deep understanding of the game and his ability to dictate terms to the bowlers, making him a truly class apart in Test cricket.
- Harry Brook achieved his ninth Test century in just 44 innings, the fastest for an England batter in 96 years.
- His Test average now exceeds 60, placing him among the sport’s elite performers.
- Nasser Hussain praised Brook’s composure under pressure and his ability to maintain his own tempo.
- Brook’s signature “charge” shot is a strategic move to disrupt bowlers’ lengths.
- This tactic has been highly successful for him, yielding runs without a single dismissal.
Brook’s unique blend of aggression and tactical nous continues to make him a vital asset for the England Test team.
