Harry Brook (England)
The Ashes was supposed to be the coming of age for Harry Brook. England’s future batting star and all-format captain was breathtaking, no doubt, but ended up leaving England fans gasping for air. Successive reckless shots at inopportune moments after getting a rapid start left many experts, including Stuart Broad, wondering where his game sense is.
Still, it was the same unhinged batting philosophy that gave England a crucial 59 runs in the two-day Test win in Melbourne. If only Brook had shown a bit more resolve earlier in the Ashes series where he got out for a single-digit score only once, England might not have lost the urn so emphatically and early.
It was the same reluctance to ease on the pedal which cost England the Oval Test against India where he was batting on 111 with victory just 63 runs away and with seven wickets in hand.
Brook is being prepared to take over as the leader and main batter in all formats. He clearly has the technique and temperament to switch his game on demand. The new year offers another chance to make up for all the moments of agony – the T20 World Cup in the subcontinent.
Harry Brook had had a frustrating Ashes series. Getty Images
Granted, Brook has had a frayed history with cricket in India, mostly IPL, but this should be right up his alley. He has the squad as well that complements his bravado.
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