Brook’s current form arrived swiftly following his omission from the captaincy race, a development that came as little surprise.
He was genuinely considered by managing director Rob Key and other England and Wales Cricket Board officials before ultimately being passed over for the role.
It is likely he has reflected on the reasons behind this decision, particularly in light of past incidents such as the one in Wellington and certain media comments, which point toward a need for greater maturity.
While Brook has demonstrated himself as a capable tactician and leader in white-ball cricket, there remained doubt about his readiness for Test captaincy.
The position demands more than tactical acumen on the field—it requires representing the nation and addressing complex global issues when necessary, as seen in recent matters involving Zimbabwe and Afghanistan.
Brook has yet to prove he possesses this level of maturity, making Joe Root the sole viable candidate, leaving the hierarchy with little alternative.
However, Root’s return as captain is expected to be brief—possibly concluding by the end of next year’s Ashes—presenting Brook with a clear opportunity to establish himself as the preferred choice in the interim.
Others, such as the highly regarded Jacob Bethell, may also emerge as contenders by then, though there is no reason Brook cannot assume the Test captaincy once Root steps down, particularly if he continues to demonstrate growth through performances like this one.
Undoubtedly, some will judge Brook’s innings against the backdrop of previous criticisms, questioning why he could not have displayed similar discipline during the Ashes.
What might have transpired differently had he done so remains speculative.
While the recent winter tour was widely regarded as one of the most disappointing periods in recent English cricket history, it is now time to focus forward and move beyond the Ashes.
Important lessons have been absorbed, evident in the strategic decisions made and the leadership now entrusted to Root and Stephen Fleming, who are expected to be more shrewd in their approach.
Given the significant fixtures upcoming—including a winter tour to South Africa and the Ashes next summer—it is crucial that the team moves on.
In this context, Brook’s performance is not the only encouraging sign.
Despite being dismissed for misjudging the flight of Usman Ali’s delivery, Jordan Cox displayed comparable restraint and elegance in his 73 runs.
Root contributed with his characteristic solidity, anchoring a disciplined batting effort that offered encouragement to England supporters.
After two composed days following recent turmoil, it is important not to abandon the aggressive spirit that defined the Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes era.
The team should maintain its positive mindset while avoiding the recklessness and inflexibility that previously defined their play.
Ruthlessness, often lacking under the Bazball regime, was notably absent in this Test, providing Root’s England with an ideal chance to demonstrate improvement.
Pakistan’s team selection appears suboptimal, favoring seam over additional pace, leaving them vulnerable in their bowling attack.
This presents England with an excellent opportunity to initiate a much-anticipated reset and assert dominance early.
England can now capitalize on their advantage and take a 1-0 lead in the series, with Brook setting an early example of how this new chapter might unfold.
Jonathan Agnew was speaking to BBC Sport’s Matthew Henry
