Harry Brook continued his remarkable rise in international cricket by reaching 2,000 Test runs during England’s rescue effort against New Zealand in Christchurch. Brook achieved the feat in just 36 innings, tying him with cricket legends like Viv Richards, Everton Weekes, and Brian Lara for the eighth-fastest to the milestone in Test history.
Only Don Bradman, George Headley, Herbert Sutcliffe, and a few others reached this landmark in fewer innings. Bradman remains the fastest, achieving it in an astonishing 22 innings. Among English players, Brook is second only to Sutcliffe, who took 33 innings.
England’s Struggles Early in the Day
England began the day chasing New Zealand’s first-innings total of 348. Their top-order batters faltered under tough bowling conditions. Zak Crawley was dismissed early, and Jacob Bethell and Joe Root fell in quick succession just before lunch, leaving England in deep trouble at 45-3.
Ben Duckett tried to counterattack with a brisk 46 but departed with the score at 71-4. England appeared on the brink of collapse before Brook and Ollie Pope took charge.
Brook and Pope Lead the Fightback
Brook arrived at the crease under pressure but showcased his characteristic composure and flair. Together with Ollie Pope, he stitched a vital century stand for the fifth wicket. Both batters reached their half-centuries, with Brook passing the 2,000-run mark when he reached 69.
Pakistan Wins ODI Series Against Zimbabwe
Brook’s innings highlighted his aggressive yet calculated approach. A combination of boundaries and quick singles kept the scoreboard ticking and eased the pressure on England. Pope, balancing his wicketkeeping and batting responsibilities, also played a pivotal role in steadying the innings.
A Milestone in Brook’s Stellar Career
Brook’s achievement adds to his growing list of records. Since his explosive debut in 2022, he has established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket. His triple-century against Pakistan earlier this year set the tone for his meteoric rise.
Brook’s ability to score quickly and adapt to various conditions has made him a cornerstone of England’s Test team. His rapid ascent has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest batters in the game.
Fastest to 2,000 Test Runs: Full List
Brook joins an elite group of players who reached 2,000 Test runs in record time. Here’s the list of the fastest players to achieve the feat:
- Don Bradman (Australia) – 22 innings
- George Headley (West Indies) – 32 innings
- Herbert Sutcliffe (England) – 33 innings
- Mike Hussey (Australia) – 33 innings
- Marnus Labuschagne (Australia) – 34 innings
- Doug Walters (Australia) – 35 innings
- Brian Lara (West Indies) – 35 innings
- Harry Brook (England) – 36 innings
(Tied with Arthur Morris, Everton Weekes, Frank Worrell, and Viv Richards)
Follow Day News on Google News, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, Whats App, and TikTok for latest updates