On Friday evening, Sunrisers Hyderabad went to the Eden Gardens with a clear intention of attacking their opponents and they did not disappoint. By the end of the 18th over, they had already scored 200/3, thanks in large part to an outstanding innings from Harry Brook.
Despite never having played in the Indian Premier League before, Brook was purchased for a hefty price tag of INR 13.25 crore at the auction and was scrutinized after two disappointing performances.
However, the English batter silenced his critics by scoring 32 off his first 12 deliveries and after briefly struggling against the Kolkata Knight Riders’ spinners, he reminded everyone of his talent with some daring shot-making in the 15th over.
With the ball in hand, Lockie Ferguson began with a slower ball outside off, hoping to deceive the batter. However, Harry Brook stood his ground and confidently lifted the ball over Ferguson’s head for a massive six that was bound to feature in the season’s highlights reel.
Brook missed the next delivery while attempting a scoop shot, but connected with the following ball, lofting it wide of mid-off for a boundary. Ferguson nearly had Brook caught out on the next delivery with a slower wide delivery near the tramline.
Despite having already moved across to create space, the English talent managed to stretch his arms and slice the ball into the gap, infuriating the Kiwi speedster. The umpire signaled a no-ball, and Brook took advantage of the free-hit by executing a brilliant scoop shot for another boundary.
He then finished the innings in style with a powerful slap towards point off a short and wide delivery, setting the stage for the first century of the 2023 season. Brook remained not out on 100 off 55 deliveries, causing a frenzy on social media.