England captain Harry Brook delivered a blistering 72-run knock off just 52 balls in the fifth and deciding One-Day International (ODI) against Australia at the County Ground in Bristol on Sunday. His aggressive innings, laced with seven towering sixes and three fours, helped England post a competitive total in their bid to claim the series.

Harry Brook’s explosive knock lifts England

Brook came in to bat when England were 70/2, having just lost their openers in the early stages of the innings. Unfazed by the situation, he looked in control from the start and quickly found his rhythm, continuing his strong form from the previous two matches. Brook formed a crucial 144-run partnership with Ben Duckett for the third wicket, which anchored England’s innings and shifted momentum in their favour.

Playing the role of the aggressor, Brook unleashed an array of powerful shots, dealing primarily in maximums. His ability to clear the boundary with ease kept the Australian bowlers under constant pressure, with leg-spinner Adam Zampa bearing the brunt of Brook’s assault. Brook smashed Zampa for six sixes during his stay at the crease.

Here’s the video:

6️⃣6️⃣6️⃣ 😱

Captain Brook sends Zampa to the cleaners as England look set for a big total. 🔥#ENGvsAUSonFanCode #RivalsForever pic.twitter.com/Z13fbGmmZu

— FanCode (@FanCode) September 29, 2024

Air Brook in full throttle ✈️

English skipper Harry Brook takes Adam Zampa to the skies with brutal strikes 💥 #SonySportsNetwork #ENGvAUS #HarryBrook pic.twitter.com/RPEkBrqOqG

— Sony Sports Network (@SonySportsNetwk) September 29, 2024

Also READ: ENG vs AUS – Here’s why Steve Smith captaining Australia in the 5th ODI and not Mitchell Marsh

Australia’s bowlers fight back late

Brook’s dismissal in the 25th over came as a much-needed breakthrough for Australia, who were struggling to contain England’s run flow. However, his knock was pivotal in setting up a solid foundation for England’s total. Duckett, who played the anchor role during their partnership, went on to score a magnificent 107, holding the innings together even after Brook’s departure.

Despite Brook’s heroics, Australia’s bowlers clawed back in the later stages of England’s innings. Travis Head was the standout performer with the ball, taking 4 wickets for just 28 runs, while Glenn Maxwell and Zampa also chipped in with two wickets apiece. England were eventually bowled out for 309 in 49.2 overs.

Also READ: Netizens react as Ben Duckett slams a fighting century in the 5th ODI against Australia

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