England’s Harry Brook Admits His Century Was “Riddled With Luck”

England’s rising star Harry Brook admitted that his stunning 171-run century in the first Test against New Zealand in Christchurch was not without its share of fortune. Despite playing a commanding knock that helped England post a formidable total of 499, Brook was granted five lifelines by the New Zealand fielders, which he capitalized on to build a match-defining innings.

Reflecting on his innings, Brook humbly acknowledged the role of luck in his performance. “I had a lot of luck, didn’t I? Jesus,” he said, recalling the multiple chances he was given during his knock. As quoted by ESPNcricinfo, Brook was dropped four times on Friday (when he was on 18, 41, 70, and 106), and again on Saturday when he was on 147.

Despite the fortunate breaks, Brook made the most of his opportunities, smashing 18 boundaries in his 171 runs, including a number of powerful strikes that highlighted his attacking style. “That first drop, especially, I’m not sure many people are catching that, to be honest. I hit that very hard,” he said, referring to one of the earlier missed chances. “I do throw my hands at it quite hard sometimes, and it’s going to take a good catch at gully, especially with the viewing conditions.”

Brook’s innings was a key factor in England surpassing New Zealand’s first-innings total of 348 and setting up a dominant position in the match. He formed a 159-run partnership with England’s Test captain Ben Stokes, which further consolidated England’s lead. Brook’s dismissal, when he edged a Matt Henry delivery to wicketkeeper Tom Blundell, ended a frustrating period for New Zealand, who had been visibly deflated by the chances they had missed.

In total, Brook was given five opportunities during his innings, with New Zealand’s fielding lapses proving costly. However, not all of those chances were simple; as Brook pointed out, his aggressive batting style meant that some of the opportunities to catch him were difficult, especially with the pace and power with which he struck the ball.

Brook’s success against New Zealand is becoming a trend. In just five innings against them, he has scored two centuries and two fifties, with his only failure being a duck in the fourth innings of the memorable 2023 Wellington Test. Reflecting on his approach to playing against New Zealand, he said, “I’ve just gone out there and tried to play the ball, really. The pitches have been fairly good with a bit of pace and bounce, and if you get it past the infield, it’s usually four. I’ve tried to use the pace, ride the bounce, and had quite a bit of luck this week.”

As of Day 3 of the Test, New Zealand found themselves at 155/6, trailing by just four runs with Daryl Mitchell (31*) and Nathan Smith (1*) unbeaten at the crease. While New Zealand’s bowlers had some success in removing key England players, they will be hoping to bounce back and make further inroads on Day 4.

Brook’s century, built on both his natural talent and a fair dose of luck, has once again showcased his ability to rise to the occasion. His performance was a pivotal moment in the match and will be crucial in determining England’s chances of securing victory in Christchurch.