LONDON: Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen expressed his surprise on Saturday regarding the exclusion of young batter Harry Brook from England’s one-day international (ODI) World Cup squad.
Ben Stokes has decided to come out of ODI retirement to participate in England’s 50-over title defense in India later this year. While Stokes returns, Harry Brook, who made a mark for his country in the Test arena, has been left out of the 15-man squad.
David Willey has been included in the squad as an extra seamer, considering the potential need for rotation. Dawid Malan has also been selected over Harry Brook.
During an interview with the international media, Kevin Pietersen expressed his surprise, saying, “I’m absolutely flabbergasted that [Brook] didn’t make England’s World Cup squad because he is an exceptional player. I can’t believe it.”
“I saw this guy at Headingley two years ago when The Hundred started, and I immediately recognized him as a superstar. He was playing shots all around the ground, hitting the ball over extra-cover or midwicket,” he added.
Harry Brook has played only three ODIs and scored a half-century. Nevertheless, he is considered one of the most promising young batters globally.
Brook has an impressive average of over 60 in Test cricket so far and secured a record contract in the 2023 IPL auction. Though he faced some challenges during the tournament, his century against the Kolkata Knight Riders showcased his exceptional talent.
Pietersen is not the only one surprised by England’s decision. Jofra Archer, who was not selected due to his ongoing recovery from injury, discovered the news live on air and expressed his astonishment. It is expected that Brook, similar to Archer, will be named one of England’s three traveling reserves for the competition.