In the opening game of the Ashes 2023, England made the decision to bat first against Australia. By the conclusion of the 40th over, they had already lost half of their team. The day’s play showcased some remarkable shots, but it was Harry Brook who provided the standout moment, albeit through a stroke of luck, leading to his departure back to the pavilion.
During the 38th over, Nathan Lyon took charge of the bowling duties. He delivered a shorter ball, aiming towards the middle stump. As Brook opted to leave the delivery, it made contact with his thigh pad, benefiting from an additional bounce.
Surprisingly, the ball popped up in the air after striking the higher part of the pads, leaving both the wicketkeeper and the leg slip clueless about its trajectory. Brook himself was unaware of where the ball was heading until it brushed against his back leg and ultimately crashed into the stumps.
Australia found themselves fortunate, gaining an unexpected breakthrough. Brook wore a smile on his face following his dismissal, acknowledging the bizarre manner in which he was sent back to the pavilion.
A freak dismissal.
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 16, 2023
Live clips/Scorecard: https://t.co/TZMO0eJDwY pic.twitter.com/cIUQaANJ2x
Even Ricky Ponting, commenting from the commentary box, admitted that he had never witnessed such an unconventional dismissal before. The sentiment was echoed by social media users, who shared their astonishment over the incident.
