Harry Brook Sets Record as Fastest Player to 3,000 Test Runs

Harry Brook Achieves Milestone in Ashes Test

England's Harry Brook has made history by becoming the fastest cricketer to score 3,000 runs in Test matches based on the number of balls faced. This remarkable achievement occurred during the fourth Ashes Test, held on Boxing Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

In his first innings, Brook played a crucial role in countering England's early struggles, scoring 41 runs off 34 balls, which included two fours and two sixes, after the team found itself at a precarious 16 for 4. Unfortunately, his innings was cut short by Scott Boland, continuing a trend seen throughout the series.

To date, Brook has amassed 3,034 runs in 34 Tests, boasting an impressive average of 54.17, with 10 centuries and 14 fifties across 57 innings, and a highest score of 317.

Brook Breaks Denis Compton's Record

Brook reached the 3,000-run milestone in just 3,468 balls, making him the fastest player to achieve this feat in terms of deliveries faced. He is also tied with Denis Compton for being the second-fastest English player to reach this mark, both having done so in 57 innings. The record for the fastest Englishman remains with Australian legend Don Bradman, who achieved it in only 33 innings back in 1928.

This year alone, Brook has scored 753 runs in 10 Tests and 17 innings, averaging 44.29 with a strike rate exceeding 82, including two centuries and four fifties, with a top score of 158.

Opening Day Drama at MCG

In the ongoing Test, England opted to bowl first, and Josh Tongue delivered a stellar performance, taking five wickets for 45 runs, which helped dismiss Australia for a mere 152 runs in their first innings. Tongue's achievement marks him as the first bowler from England to secure a five-wicket haul in a Boxing Day Test at the MCG in the 21st century.

His aggressive bowling style was a welcome sight for England fans, especially after the team had lost the Ashes series and was seeking their first victory in Australia since the 2010/11 series. Tongue's performance was fueled by a desire to restore pride for England, who have struggled in Australia, having not won in their last 18 Tests there.

At the end of the day, England found themselves at 110 all out, with Brook being the top scorer. Gus Atkinson contributed 28 runs off 35 balls, while Michael Neser and Scott Boland wreaked havoc with the ball, taking 4 for 45 and 3 for 30, respectively. Australia ended the day leading by 46 runs at 4 for 0.