Recognizing Emotions on the Pitch
Scientists assert that an average human can identify 21 unique facial expressions. After seven years in Test cricket, Jasprit Bumrah has seen his fair share, from awe to disgust, and many others. Recently, it seems the last time he faced a genuinely happy batsman was a while ago. However, during Sunday’s play, if you had a good view of Harry Brook, you would have noticed his beaming smile shining brightly.
Brook’s Unique Approach
While one might question Brook’s thrill-seeking methods—such as charging down the pitch to face a bowler delivering 90mph bouncers—his mind operates differently. On Bumrah’s third delivery to him that match, he charged forward and struck the ball through the covers for four runs.
Exceptional Shots
This was just one of many remarkable shots in Brook’s innings. He launched one of Prasidh Krishna’s short deliveries into the stands and expertly dispatched a ball from Mohammed Siraj over a newly positioned silly mid-off. Even a clever scoop over wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant led to another four off Ravindra Jadeja. It felt reminiscent of a child imitating a trick seen on TV, but with successful execution.
Brook’s Natural Talent
These shots are not typical, even for experienced batsmen. Brook is arguably the most talented stroke player England has seen since Kevin Pietersen. Not long ago, such risky shots would have drawn reprimands, but under Brendon McCullum’s guidance—his only coach—Brook has been nurtured to embrace an aggressive playing style.
India’s Frustration
When the second new ball came into play, India’s bowlers were visibly frustrated. They believed they had dismissed Brook once when he attempted a hook shot off a Bumrah bouncer, only to realize it was a no-ball. They thought they had him again when he edged a Jadeja delivery, but Pant couldn’t make the catch. The bowlers spent the morning trying to convince the umpires to change the softer ball and finally received their shiny new one.
Siraj’s Aggression
Siraj took on the new ball with his typical aggressive demeanor. He managed to beat Brook outside off, and after Brook flailed at a cut shot, he slightly lost his balance. Following a series of events where Brook hit consecutive boundaries, Siraj was visibly agitated, hitting Brook on the elbow with a fast delivery. Despite Brook’s wincing, Siraj continued to stare him down, and then Brook responded by smashing the next ball for a six.
A Close Call
Brook was temporarily dropped again when he cut a Bumrah delivery towards gully. He eventually got out at 99, caught in the deep. It’s intriguing to ponder whether he has any thoughts beyond simply hitting the ball. In this regard, he continues a longstanding Yorkshire cricket tradition, reminiscent of legends like Geoff Boycott, who all fell just short of their Test hundreds.
