Harry Brook hits century at number three to steer England into semis

England captain Harry Brook struck a magnificent century after being promoted to number three to secure a two-wicket victory over Pakistan and a place in the T20 World Cup semi-finals.

McCullum’s tactical gamble pays off

The Yorkshireman smashed a 50-ball hundred having been elevated from the middle order by head coach Brendon McCullum.

McCullum faced heavy criticism following a 4-1 Ashes defeat earlier in the winter, but his strategic intervention in Pallekele proved decisive.

“Baz [McCullum] was the mastermind there,” said Brook.

“He had the discussion with me this morning about going up the order and trying to maximise the powerplay.”

Brook added: “Thankfully, it paid off.”

New role for the skipper

The decision to move the right-hander up the order allowed England to navigate a tricky chase despite Phil Salt falling for a golden duck.

It is a move that had been suggested by team-mate Moeen Ali, with Brook previously batting exclusively at number five in T20 internationals during 2026.

The shift appeared vital with opener Jos Buttler struggling for runs at the top of the order.

Will Jacks has subsequently taken over the finishing duties in the middle order, a role he performed admirably to support the captain.

Brook dominates spin attack

Brook arrived at the crease in the first over and immediately seized control, striking 10 fours and four sixes.

The 27-year-old displayed impeccable footwork against the spin trio of Saim Ayub, Mohammad Nawaz and Shadab Khan.

He utilised the crease intelligently, moving deep to pull shorter deliveries while skipping down the track to drive through the covers.

Victory ensures England’s progression to the last four, where they will face New Zealand on Friday.