Huge blow for England as rising star Harry Brook withdraws from India Tests
Just days before the highly anticipated five-match Test series between India and England kicks off in Hyderabad, England has suffered a major blow with the news that in-form batsman Harry Brook has pulled out due to personal reasons. The 24-year-old, who was with the team in Dubai, has already taken a flight back home immediately.
Brook’s absence is a significant setback for England, who were banking on his talent and versatility to bolster their middle order in the challenging spin-friendly conditions of India. Since making his Test debut back in 2022, he has scored over 1000 runs at an average of 62.15 and a strike rate of 91.76.
Bairstow is in line to take the middle-order slot
His absence could lead England to play Jonny Bairstow as a specialist batter. Bairstow was all set to miss out on the playing 11 as Ben Foakes was likely to be given the nod considering his superior keeping skills. However, Brook’s departure now paves the way for the experienced Bairstow who is one of the few batters who can replicate the former’s explosive attacking style with aplomb.
For India, Brook’s withdrawal is a positive development. His ability to counter-spin the bowling and his penchant for taking the attack to the bowlers could have made a difference. However, they will still be extremely cautious as England has played some outstanding Test Cricket under the new regime. The five-match Test series between India and England starts on January 25th in Hyderabad, and it is all set to be an intriguing and compelling battle between two cricketing giants.
