Harry Brook Steps Up with Crucial Century at The Oval, Gains Michael Vaughan’s Backing as Future Test Captain. Harry Brook delivered a match-defining performance in the second innings of the final Test at The Oval, smashing a brilliant 111 off just 98 balls. His commanding knock came at a crucial juncture for England, especially in the absence of regular Test captain Ben Stokes, who was sidelined due to a shoulder injury. With vice-captain Ollie Pope stepping in as skipper, Harry Brook display of composure and aggression stood out.
Harry Brook had already made his mark earlier in the match with a solid half-century in the first innings, playing a key role in helping England secure a narrow 23-run lead. In the second innings, he joined forces with Joe Root to build a monumental 195-run partnership for the fourth wicket, steering England into a commanding position.
By stumps on Day 4, England reached 339/6, needing just 35 more runs to seal victory. Root also contributed with a fine century, reinforcing England’s control over the match.
Former England captain Michael Vaughan praised Harry Brook temperament and leadership potential, backing him as a future Test captain. Having already been named England’s white-ball captain earlier this year, Harry Brook consistency and maturity in red-ball cricket continue to enhance his credentials across formats.
“Harry Brook Looks Like a Natural Leader” – Michael Vaughan Backs Brook to Captain England in Tests
Former England captain Michael Vaughan has hailed Harry Brook as a “born leader” and suggested he should be considered to lead the Test side in Ben Stokes’ absence. Speaking on the Test Match Special podcast, Vaughan shared his thoughts on England’s leadership future.
“Harry Brook, to me, looks a leader. He looks a born leader,” Vaughan said. “If Ben Stokes gets injured in the future, why not have Ollie Pope stay as vice-captain and let Harry Brook take on the captaincy role?”
Vaughan went on to praise Pope’s qualities as a second-in-command but expressed doubts over his suitability for the top job: “Ollie Pope looks like a fantastic vice-captain. He’s the kind of person you want next to the skipper—full of ideas and energy. But sometimes, vice-captains don’t necessarily make great captains.”
He clarified that he doesn’t have behind-the-scenes insights but is simply calling for the best leader to guide England forward. “I’m not in the dressing room and don’t know the dynamics well enough. I just want the best captain to lead England—and being a good vice-captain doesn’t always mean you’ll be a good captain.”
While Pope has experience leading England in four Tests—with three wins and one loss—his form in the current series has been steady, scoring 306 runs in five matches at an average of 34.00, including a century and a fifty.
On the other hand, Harry Brook has emerged as one of England’s standout performers in the series. The 26-year-old is the team’s second-highest run-scorer, amassing 481 runs in nine innings at a brilliant average of 53.44, including two centuries and two half-centuries.
As the final day of the Oval Test approaches, England find themselves at 339/6, needing just 35 more runs for victory. Jamie Smith (2*) and Jamie Overton are at the crease, with England leading the five-match series 2-1.