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Harry Brook and England are chilled and relaxed despite the seven-wicket defeat to India at the Eden Gardens.
Harry Brook.
The seven-wicket defeat to India in the first men’s T20I at Eden Gardens hasn’t affected England’s confidence or game plan, according to vice-captain Harry Brook. The 25-year-old said that new head coach Brendon McCullum has maintained the same message: ‘keep pushing’ and to put pressure on the hosts.
England were completely outplayed at the iconic Kolkata ground. India bowled the visitors out for a measly 132 in the first innings and then chased it with more than seven overs to spare. They now trail the series 1-0 with the second T20I slated to be played in Chennai’s Chepauk on Saturday (January 25).
“We’re pretty chilled. India is a very good side, so, we knew what they were gonna hit us with and yeah, they played an exceptional game,” Brook said on the eve of the second T20I in Chennai.
“We just need to keep pushing, the same messaging Baz (Brendon McCullum) has been saying throughout. We need to look to put pressure on their bowlers and try to take wickets throughout their innings. You’ve always got to go a little bit above and beyond to exceed,” he added.
Brook was one of the three to be dismissed by spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who was eventually declared the Player of the Match. The right-hander looked decent for his 17 (14) but couldn’t read Chakavarthy’s googly and got bowled.
“It was not an ideal start. But it was just one game. It would be (his aim) is to contribute to wins. The only thing I really think about is trying to be a match-winner and if I win one or two games out of this series here, I’ll be very happy with it,” he added.
Really nice to watch Jos Buttler go about his business: Harry Brook
The only silver lining for England’s batting in the match was skipper Jos Buttler, who scored 68 (44), more than half of the total runs. Brook said it was his ‘pleasure’ to watch him bat like that.
“Yeah, he is obviously very experienced in India. He’s done exceptionally well in the IPL and whenever he’s played for England here. So, it’s really nice to watch him go out there and go about his business. It was a pleasure to watch him from the other end for a little bit,” Brook said.
The second T20I will kick off at 7pm IST.
