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Brook's controversial dismissal fuels online criticism
England batter Harry Brook's ill-fated reverse sweep attempt off Nathan Lyon in the third Ashes Test has reignited scrutiny over his shot selection, as Australia edges closer to securing the series in Adelaide.
Pressure mounts on England's vice-captain
Brook, who serves as England's Test vice-captain and white-ball captain, has faced relentless criticism during the Ashes tour. His latest dismissal-bowled while attempting a reverse sweep-has drawn sharp reactions online, particularly after a string of aggressive but unsuccessful shots in previous matches.
The 26-year-old, who boasts an impressive Test average of 55.05, has struggled to replicate his early-career form. His recent performances, including a first-innings 45 in Adelaide, have done little to silence detractors.
Brook acknowledges struggles, vows improvement
Speaking ahead of the third Test, Brook admitted his recent displays had been subpar, labeling some of his shots as "shocking."
"Sometimes I've got to rein it in a little bit, learn to absorb the pressure more. I need to realize when the opportunity arises to put the pressure back on them."
Harry Brook
Despite his struggles, Brook showed glimpses of restraint in Adelaide, avoiding reckless strokes early in his second-innings innings before his eventual dismissal.
Reverse sweep: Tactical gamble or reckless shot?
Brook's reverse sweep dismissal has divided opinion. While critics argue the shot was ill-advised, others point to its tactical success earlier in the day. England's batters, including Zak Crawley, Joe Root, and Will Jacks, executed the shot 20 times, scoring 29 runs and disrupting Lyon's rhythm.
BBC commentator Jonathan Agnew defended the tactic, noting the ball's unpredictable bounce and spin on the Adelaide pitch.
"They had played the reverse sweep quite deliberately and played it well to stop him bowling at them all the time with close fielders. It is a legitimate tactic."
Jonathan Agnew, BBC Test Match Special
Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey echoed Agnew's sentiment, acknowledging the shot's effectiveness despite its risks.
Lyon's craft exposes Brook's misjudgment
Lyon's dismissal of Brook appeared premeditated, with the off-spinner adjusting his length and line to counter the reverse sweep. Brook's repeated use of the shot against Travis Head earlier in the innings may have tipped off Lyon, who exploited the batter's predictability.
Brook's history of aggressive shot-making has compounded the backlash, but his Adelaide dismissal may be one error England can overlook-provided he delivers in the coming matches.
Australia on verge of Ashes triumph
Lyon's three-wicket haul has left Australia on the cusp of an Ashes series victory, with England reduced to 207-6. The tourists, who have trailed in the series for much of the tour, now face an uphill battle to avoid defeat.
