In a thrilling Super 8 clash at the T20 World Cup 2026, England captain Harry Brook delivered a match-winning performance against Pakistan, propelling his team into the semifinals. Chasing a challenging 165-run target, Brook smashed a blistering century, becoming only the fourth player in T20 World Cup history to achieve this feat while pursuing a victory total.
Brook, promoted to number three, wasted no time asserting dominance. Reaching his half-century off just 28 balls, he accelerated ruthlessly, converting it into a 100 off 50 deliveries. His knock featured 10 fours and 4 sixes, showcasing impeccable timing and power that dismantled Pakistan’s bowling attack. This not only secured the win but also marked Brook as the first captain to score a century in the tournament’s history.
Looking back at the record books, Brook joins an exclusive list. England’s own Alex Hales blazed 116 not out off 64 balls against Sri Lanka in 2014, chasing 190 with 11 fours and 6 sixes in 19.2 overs. West Indies legend Chris Gayle then unleashed 100 not out off 48 balls in 2016 against England, chasing 183 with a staggering 11 sixes and 5 fours in 18.1 overs.
More recently, Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka stole the show in the same tournament against Australia, remaining unbeaten on 100 off 52 balls—complete with 10 fours and 5 sixes—to chase down 182 in 18 overs. Notably, while all three predecessors remained not out, Brook was the outlier in getting dismissed after his heroic effort.
This rare achievement underscores the pressure-packed nature of T20 chases at the World Cup level. Brook’s innings adds another chapter to cricket’s lore of unforgettable pursuits, setting the stage for England’s semifinal campaign with momentum on their side.