Joe Root Backs Harry Brook's Controversial Celebration After Match-Winning Century
England cricket captain Joe Root has publicly defended teammate Harry Brook's unconventional century celebration, which saw the young batter mimic WWE legend 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin's famous beer smash move. The incident occurred during England's series-clinching victory over Sri Lanka in Colombo, sparking discussion given recent scrutiny over the team's off-field conduct.
Brook's Explosive Innings and Controversial Gesture
Harry Brook delivered a spectacular performance, hammering 136 runs from just 66 balls to propel England to a commanding total of 357 for three. His unbeaten century, featuring nine sixes and a 191-run partnership, proved decisive in securing a 53-run victory that gave England a 2-1 series win.
Following his milestone, Brook celebrated by performing the signature move of wrestling icon 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin - smashing imaginary beer cans together before mimicking pouring them down his throat. This gesture raised eyebrows given England's recent challenges with accusations of excessive drinking culture within the squad.
Root's Firm Defence of Teammate
Captain Joe Root was quick to support his teammate, emphasising there was "no malice behind it" and describing the celebration as Brook's unique way of using humour to reconnect with the team. "I think that's his way of trying to show that he wants approval from the group," Root explained. "It's through humour. I think that's another area of why he's going to be a great leader."
Root highlighted how Brook's celebration demonstrated both his cricketing prowess and personal character, stating: "He showed his calmness, his clarity under pressure. He also showed humour as well. Hopefully, it's received in the right way. He's just trying to have a bit of a joke with his team-mates."
Context of Recent Controversies
The celebration comes against a backdrop of recent disciplinary issues for Brook, who began 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 October's white-ball engagement. The Yorkshire batter admitted he should not have been in that situation and acknowledged being fortunate to retain the captaincy.
This incident, for which Brook received a fine, emerged at the conclusion of an Ashes tour where England faced persistent questions about their team culture and drinking habits. Brook himself acknowledged the need to rebuild trust, stating: "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."
Root's Stellar Performance and Future Plans
The victory marked only England's second ODI series win in their last eight attempts, representing a significant achievement against a Sri Lankan side that had won their previous seven home ODI series. Root contributed substantially to the success, following scores of 61 and 75 in earlier matches with an imperious unbeaten 111 - his 20th ODI century.
As the 35-year-old prepares to return home while most teammates continue to a T20 series in Pallekele ahead of next month's T20 World Cup, questions have emerged about his absence from England's shortest-format plans. Root hasn't played an international T20 since 2019 but remains philosophical about his position: "I'm quite aware of where I probably sit within the international team and that format. I don't think I'll ever give that up. But I'm a long way off it."
The veteran batsman expressed full confidence in Brook's leadership capabilities and the current T20 squad, adding: "Harry's got an incredible job to do. The last thing he needs is some old bloke picking at his ear. 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."
Match Details and Series Outcome
Despite Pavan Rathnayake's valiant 121 keeping Sri Lankan hopes alive, the home side were bowled out with 3.2 overs remaining, confirming England's series victory. Brook's extraordinary innings demonstrated remarkable timing and power, with the batter reaching his half-century before accelerating dramatically to complete his career-best ODI score in just 26 additional deliveries.
The series win provides England with valuable momentum as they prepare for upcoming global tournaments, while the discussion around Brook's celebration highlights ongoing conversations about team culture, player conduct, and the balance between celebration and professionalism in modern cricket.
