Harry Brook tops 300 as free-scoring England break records in first Test

Harry Brook Scores Historic Triple Century as England Break Records in First Test

In a remarkable display of free-flowing batting, England’s Harry Brook achieved a milestone by scoring over 300 runs, marking the first triple century by an English batter since 1990. The extraordinary performance took place during the first Test match against Pakistan in Multan, where England declared at a colossal 823 for seven, with Brook forming a record partnership of 454 runs with Joe Root.

Day four of the Test witnessed a deluge of runs as Brook showcased his talent with a career-best 317, while Root added 262 to the tally. The declaration by Ollie Pope marked the fourth largest total ever recorded in Test cricket history, with England rewriting the annals of the game. Brook’s exceptional innings not only propelled him into the exclusive 300-run club but also made him the first English cricketer to achieve this feat since Graham Gooch against India 34 years ago.

Despite Brook’s initial chase towards Len Hutton’s record of 364, his innings concluded when he was dismissed after top-edging a sweep off Saim Ayub. England, starting the day trailing by 64 runs, turned the tables by establishing a commanding lead of 267 runs by the afternoon session. The flat nature of the pitch posed a challenge for England to convert their monumental total into strategic pressure to secure 10 wickets.

Brook’s commanding knock, embellished with 29 boundaries and three sixes, exemplified his sheer dominance over the opposition. Alongside Root, the duo ruthlessly exploited a demoralised Pakistani bowling attack, surpassing a 67-year-old record for the highest partnership by any English pair. This milestone surpassed the 411 partnership set by Peter May and Colin Cowdrey at Edgbaston in 1957.

The spectacle witnessed in Multan not only symbolised England’s resurgence in the Test match but also underscored Brook’s emergence as a standout performer in international cricket. The historic achievement resonated with fans worldwide, igniting discussions about the exceptional talent displayed by the English cricketers. As the series progresses, the cricketing world eagerly anticipates further displays of brilliance from the record-breaking England team.

By Rory Dollard, The Independent

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