Was Harry Brook's Dismissal a Risky Move?

London, July 13 (NationPress) Former head coach of India, Ravi Shastri, expressed his belief that Harry Brook's dismissal by Akash Deep, while attempting a sweep during day four of the third Test at Lord's, was an ill-advised shot, highlighting the significant risk involved.

On the third ball of the 22nd over, after hitting Akash for two fours and a six, Brook went for a bold, pre-planned sweep. Unfortunately, his middle stump was knocked back, ending his counter-attacking innings at 23 runs off 19 balls.

"Brook can be destructive - the impact he sought with those two reverse sweeps was evident. However, at that crucial point in the game, he shouldn't have taken such a risk with his wicket. It was a pointless shot, and the potential rewards were minimal," Shastri commented during the lunch break on Sky Sports.

Stuart Broad, the former England fast bowler, mentioned that Brook should have been more composed at the crease before attempting that poorly timed sweep against Akash. "His mindset is to score 60 or 70 quickly on this pitch, creating panic to position his team for victory," said Broad.

"There were two excellently executed scoops, and he managed to get the field change he desired. However, the field adjustment was clever, moving fine leg closer. He almost had India where he wanted them. Now, it was time to settle in and wait for a good ball to hit."

Brook's fall occurred during a thrilling morning session, where India capitalized on the new ball, leaving England in a precarious position at 98/4. Broad emphasized that the rest of the England batting lineup must aim for a target of 220 to keep their chances of winning alive.

"It was exhausting, wasn't it?! Brilliant to witness. India began beautifully with the ball, showcasing great intensity, which was expected after last night’s performance. It energized India with unity, but England has fought back at times. With the bounce on the pitch, as an England bowler, I would aim for 220 and remain competitive," he remarked.

When asked how England should utilize the new ball, Broad suggested, "You say to Chris Woakes, 'I know your record is excellent here, but you'll start from the Pavilion End and aim for the stumps'. Jofra Archer can charge in from the Nursery End, hitting the pitch hard for uneven bounce."

"As a tall bowler, if you're hitting the pitch with a new ball, you can unsettle batters. So, give the ball to Archer to bowl at 92mph and hope that in the first 20 deliveries, four will catch a glove and take some wickets."