Former England captain Ben Stokes has praised Harry Brook after his sensational unbeaten century against Sri Lanka, even comparing his talent with legendary batter Kevin Pietersen. Stokes defended Brook from recent criticism and said the young batter’s ability is greater than Pietersen’s.
Brook is currently leading England in the white-ball series against Sri Lanka. The skipper produced a stunning display in England’s 119-run win in the first T20I at The Rose Bowl, scoring 114 off 49 balls, including 10 fours and six sixes. He also smashed six boundaries in a single over against Dunith Wellalage.
Ben Stokes Calls Harry Brook a Bigger Talent Than Kevin Pietersen
Ben Stokes compared Brook's talent with former England batter Kevin Pietersen. Stokes later acknowledged that his comparison was harsh on Pietersen but maintained his view that Brook is the better talent.
“I don’t even think the genius of KP could come close to what Harry Brook has talent-wise. Is it really that hard to just sit back and admire these players for what they are, on the good days and the bad days, and stop berating them for doing things that we would never, ever, ever even think of doing because we simply aren’t on their level to think that way? You are an absolute freak, Harry. You’re mint to watch.”
“Bit harsh on KP actually both are freak talents but Brook better IMO is my point,” Stokes wrote.
Alastair Cook Backs Harry Brook to Surpass Kevin Pietersen
During The Overlap’s Stick to Cricket podcast, former England players Alastair Cook, Michael Vaughan and Darren Gough discussed the Brook’s potential and whether he could eventually surpass Pietersen’s achievements.
Cook said that the England captain has the ability to move beyond Pietersen if he produces similarly dominant performances in major series. However, he pointed out Pietersen’s impact in important moments, particularly during the 2005 Ashes.
“When Brook dominates a series or does something like KP did in one of the big series, I think all around Harry has the potential to go past KP. But when KP sits down and watches, he can say that on some of those absolute biggest moments - clearly 2005 - he delivered. Unbelievable.”
Vaughan also backed Brook to play a major role in future Ashes success. He believes the England captain could eventually lead the team to an Ashes series win while claiming the Player of the Series award.
“I have no doubt Brook, and the England side will have a moment where they win an Ashes series and he is Man of the Series. I believe he'll win England a white-ball trophy. KP won England a T20 World Cup with his game. And I think Harry Brook has got it in him to win plenty.”
Darren Gough Warns Against Copying Harry Brook's Batting Style
Darren Gough offered a different perspective on Brook’s influence, praising his unique ability while warning other batters against trying to copy his aggressive technique without possessing the same natural skills.
“Brook is a one-off. I love watching Harry play, and I think he's taken batting to another level. But you can't have players who aren't as talented as Harry Brook trying to do what he does. That was the biggest mistake for me from watching this team.”
"KP or Harry Brook?" 🔥
— Stick to Cricket (@StickToCricket) September 24, 2026
Ben Stokes sparks an eye-opening debate! 👀 pic.twitter.com/GXQP7sRSWw
The knock was Brook’s first international century in 18 innings since February, while the knock was also England’s joint second-fastest T20I hundred.
