Cricket News

Just before IPL auctions, Harry Brook’s heroics take England home against West Indies in a high-scoring run-chase

England beat West Indies in 3rd T20I on Saturday.

Dec 17, 2023 11:33 am

After losing the first two T20Is of the three-match series, England were out in the third T20I to salvage their pride and finally went to beat the West Indies in an enthralling encounter. Needing 21 off the last over, England’s young sensation Harry Brook’s heroics took England over the line as he managed to hit 21 runs in the last over off Andre Russell. Going up against the formidable Andre Russell, known for his prowess in the death overs, Brook showcased remarkable nerves and etched his name in history books.

This match-winning innings came at the right time for Brook as the IPL auctions are just around the corner and after a mediocre last IPL season Brook needed an innings like this to up his stakes before the auctions.

Russell’s full toss on Brook’s legs provided the perfect opportunity for the England batter to scoop the ball over the fine leg boundary for another six, leaving a mere 5 runs to be scored from the next three deliveries. Despite attempting to dispatch a short-pitched ball for a boundary, Brook secured a double this time.

‘It feels like it has been a long time coming’ – Phil Salt

The climax unfolded with Russell delivering a wide fuller ball, promptly dispatched over the third man boundary for a six by Brook, completing a breathtaking turnaround to secure the victory and level the series at 1-1. In their pursuit of a colossal target of 223 runs set by West Indies in the 2nd T20I, England found an unsung hero in opening batsman Phil Salt, who remained unbeaten on 109 off 56 balls and was rightfully named the Player of the Match.

After the match, an elated Salt expressed, “It feels like it has been a long time coming. We have been emphasizing the importance of being match-winners in the group. We aimed to bring it down to 60-70 runs in the last 5 overs. There’s a method to do it, and I played it my way. The partnership with Jos was crucial. He is one of the best in the world.”