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Harry Brook Reflects on Lord’s Thriller: ‘It Felt Like 11 vs 2 Out There’
England’s Intensity at Lord’s: Banter, Pressure, and Victory
In the aftermath of England’s nail-biting 22-run win over India at Lord’s, young England batter Harry Brook opened up about the charged atmosphere that defined the closing days of the third Test in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series. Describing the drama on the field, Brook noted that the match felt like “11 versus two” when England fielded against India’s final pair, capturing the emotionally heightened intensity of the game.
“It was good fun, it was tiring, but it made fielding a lot more enjoyable,” Brook said ahead of the fourth Test in Manchester.
Verbal Duels and Mental Edge: England’s Tactical Response
Brook revealed that England’s players were fired up after witnessing Indian bowlers Jasprit Bumrah and others direct heated words at openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett during a short burst late on Day 3.
“We watched that and reassessed. We thought it was the right time to go back at them,” he said.
The return jibes and fielding energy paid dividends. Despite chasing a relatively low target of 193 on a challenging Lord’s surface, India collapsed under pressure—falling agonizingly short.
Verbal Tactics and Strategic Execution
Brook believes the mental pressure imposed by England’s on-field banter and relentless energy was crucial in unsettling India’s batters during crunch moments.
“I think it put them under a bit more pressure… thankfully, they ended up crumbling.”
A Series for the Ages: Praise for Competitive Cricket
The series so far has seen edge-of-the-seat finishes, with every Test stretching into the final hour of Day 5. Lord’s, in particular, has drawn high praise from cricket fans and analysts alike.
“Everyone said that the Lord’s game was one of the best they’ve ever watched,” said Brook, adding that the energy and fight on display reflect just how competitive the series has been.
Related article: Read how Mohammed Siraj coped with Lord’s heartbreak
Liam Dawson Replaces Injured Bashir in Manchester Test
With off-spinner Shoaib Bashir ruled out due to a broken finger, England have drafted in the experienced Liam Dawson for the fourth Test at Old Trafford.
Brook praised Dawson as a “wily old fox” with valuable experience in spinning conditions and a strong first-class record. Not only does Dawson bolster England’s spin attack, but he also strengthens the batting order, with nearly 20 First-Class centuries to his name.
“He’s competitive, always willing to fight for the team, and a really good bloke to have around,” Brook said.
Brook on Root: ‘He Deserves the No. 1 Spot’
Despite previously occupying the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test batting rankings, Brook was graceful in conceding it to teammate Joe Root, calling him the greatest Test batter of all time.
“He’s phenomenal. I’m not in the same league as him… he deserves that No. 1 tag,” Brook said.
Root’s recent performances, including his gritty innings at Lord’s, have solidified his stature, while Brook continues to evolve into one of England’s most exciting young talents.
ICC Test Rankings – Official Website
England’s XI for Fourth Test at Old Trafford
Confirmed Playing XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Liam Dawson, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jofra Archer
