Can Brook's Explosive Century and Root's Near-Perfect Performance Lead England to Series Victory?
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Synopsis
In an electrifying Day Four of the fifth Test, Harry Brook's stunning 111 and Joe Root's solid 98 not out have put England in a prime position to secure the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. With just 57 runs needed for victory, the duo's partnership has left India scrambling for answers. Can England seal the series?
Key Takeaways
- Brook scored a remarkable 111 runs.
- Root remains crucial with 98 not out.
- England needs 57 runs for victory.
- A partnership of 195 runs between Brook and Root.
- India struggling to contain England's batting.
London, Aug 3 (NationPress) Harry Brook delivered an explosive performance, scoring 111 runs off 98 balls, while Joe Root maintained his impressive form, remaining not out on 98. England reached 317/4 in 66 overs at tea on Day Four of the fifth and final Test, now needing just 57 more runs to clinch the remarkable Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series victory.
At one point, England found themselves at 106/3 and still required 268 runs to win when Brook entered the crease. After concluding the first session with 38 not out, Brook turned the tide in the afternoon, marking his tenth Test century, which featured 14 fours and 2 sixes.
The 195-run partnership with Root left Shubman Gill and the Indian bowlers scrambling for answers as England's run flow became relentless. With the ball losing hardness and the pitch remaining conducive, India struggled to contain the onslaught, allowing England to score 153 runs in the afternoon session, putting them on the path for a 3-1 series win, although rain threatened to delay the final session.
The session commenced with Brook elegantly flicking and slashing Prasidh Krishna for two fours, quickly reaching his 14th Test fifty off just 39 balls. With Washington Sundar and Ravindra Jadeja failing to extract much turn and the pacers tiring, both Root and Brook continued to find boundaries effortlessly. Root reached his fifty off 81 balls, ensuring India remained under constant pressure.
After Brook struck Akash and Siraj for fours, the duo found ease in dispatching runs through extra cover and mid-wicket. Eventually, Brook secured his hundred off just 91 balls, quickly following up with consecutive boundaries against Akash.
Brook's magnificent innings concluded when he danced down the pitch against Akash, losing his bat and getting caught by Siraj at mid-wicket. Root narrowly avoided an lbw appeal against Siraj as India wasted a review. However, his three boundaries at the end of the session put him on the brink of a match-winning century, poised to lead England in their chase.
Brief scores:
India 224 and 396 lead England 247 and 317/4 in 66 overs (Harry Brook 111, Joe Root 98 not out; Mohammed Siraj 2-91, Akash Deep 1-73) by 57 runs
Point of View
England's performance exemplifies resilience and skill, with Brook and Root showcasing exceptional talent under pressure. As the series nears its climax, the focus shifts to whether India can regroup and mount a challenge against a confident England side. Our reporting aims to provide an unbiased view on this thrilling contest.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What were Harry Brook's stats in the test?
Harry Brook scored 111 runs off 98 balls during the fifth Test.
How many runs does England need to win?
England needs 57 more runs to secure victory in the fifth Test.
What is the current score of the match?
As of now, England is at 317/4 in 66 overs.
What does this match mean for the series?
This match is pivotal as England aims for a 3-1 series win in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
Who are the key players in this match?
Key players include Harry Brook, who scored a century, and Joe Root, who is on 98 not out.
