On September 15, 2026, in the first T20I held in Southampton, England beat Sri Lanka by 119 runs. England scored 254 for four in their innings, with Harry Brook delivering a pivotal performance that established the foundation for their win.
Brook smashed 114 not out off just 49 balls, hitting 10 fours and six sixes in a display of aggressive batting. He scored his century off just 42 balls, setting a joint-second -fastest T20I century record for England. The knock was especially noteworthy, as it represented Brook’s first international century in any format since his 18 innings following England’s World Cup win over Pakistan in February 2026.
Brook’s century off 42 balls was his second-fastest for England in T20 internationals, included 30 runs from one over, and was part of a 128-run second-wicket stand with Jos Buttler, who scored 80 off 44 balls.
Kevin Pietersen observed the display from the balcony following his recent appointment to a mentoring role within England’s white-ball team under head coach Brendon McCullum, with Brook showing excitement at the chance to learn from his childhood idol. Sri Lanka were dismissed for 135 in reply to England’s commanding total, as Hampshire fast bowler Sonny Baker claimed three for 12 on his home ground.
Sportstar quoted Brook saying, “Obviously we haven’t had too much time together so far but he’s a great figure to have in the changing room — the type of player he was, he looked at batting slightly differently, in a similar way to me as well. He always wants to try and look to put the bowlers under pressure, and I’m looking forward to working with him a lot more.”
Harry Brook thinks Kevin Pietersen’s involvement with the England team could greatly influence his career. Pietersen recently joined the squad in a specialist mentoring role, and Brook acknowledged that the former England captain is still viewed as a hero by many players in the dressing room. He also pointed out Pietersen’s impact in both red-ball and white-ball cricket.
