Root Defends Brook's Controversial Celebration After Match-Winning Century
England captain Joe Root has insisted there was "no malice" behind Harry Brook's WWE-inspired celebration after the batter's sensational century clinched the ODI series against Sri Lanka in Colombo.
Stone Cold Celebration Raises Eyebrows
Brook marked his magnificent 136 from just 66 balls by mimicking former WWE wrestler 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin's famous beer smash move, raising two cans together before the traditional pouring gesture. This celebration inevitably drew attention given recent controversies surrounding England's squad behaviour.
The 26-year-old Yorkshire batter had begun this tour by apologising to England supporters for what he called his "terrible mistake" following an altercation with a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand during their last white-ball engagement in October. Brook admitted he should not have been in that situation and considered himself fortunate to retain the captaincy.
Recent Controversies Linger
News of that incident, for which Brook received a fine, emerged at the conclusion of an Ashes tour where England faced accusations of a "drinking culture" within their ranks. The timing of Brook's beer-themed celebration therefore prompted questions about whether it represented the most appropriate gesture.
However, Root was quick to defend his teammate, explaining that the celebration represented Brook's unique humour and his ongoing efforts to rebuild trust within the squad following the New Zealand incident.
Root's Insight Into Brook's Character
"I think that's his way of doing that, trying to show that he wants that approval from the group," Root stated. "It's through humour. I think that's another area of why he's going to be a great leader. It's because he has that side to him as well."
The England captain elaborated further on Brook's multifaceted character, saying: "He showed his calmness, his clarity under pressure. He also showed humour as well. Hopefully, it's received in the right way. Definitely no malice behind it. He's just trying to have a bit of a joke with his team-mates."
Brook himself addressed the celebration, explaining: "It was just more about celebrating tonight with the boys. Like I said the other day in my press conference, I've got to try and gain that trust back from the lads."
Match-Winning Partnership Seals Series
The celebration followed an extraordinary display of batting that propelled England to a commanding total of 357 for three in Colombo. Brook's innings, which included nine sixes, formed part of a devastating 191-run partnership with Root, who contributed an imperious unbeaten 111 - his 20th ODI century.
This partnership proved decisive as England secured a 53-run victory, bowling Sri Lanka out with 3.2 overs remaining despite Pavan Rathnayake's fighting 121. The win clinched a 2-1 series triumph, marking only England's second ODI series victory in their last eight attempts.
Root's Future in T20 Cricket
The match also highlighted Root's continued excellence in the 50-over format, with the 35-year-old following scores of 61 and 75 in the first two matches with his century in the decider. His form inevitably raised questions about his absence from England's T20 setup, having not played an international T20 since 2019.
"I'm quite aware of where I probably sit within the international team and that format," Root acknowledged. "I don't think I'll ever give that up. But I'm a long way off it. Harry's got an incredible job to do. The last thing he needs is some old bloke picking at his ear."
Root praised the current T20 squad, adding: "That's part and parcel of the game. Those guys are ahead of me, they are an incredible group of players who definitely have the tools and ability to go out and win this tournament."
While Root returns home, most of the England squad now move on to a three-match T20 series in Pallekele before next month's T20 World Cup, with Brook's leadership and batting form providing significant encouragement for the challenges ahead.
