England’s semifinal dreams came alive thanks to captain Harry Brook’s sensational century in a high-stakes Super 8 encounter against Pakistan at T20 World Cup 2026. Tasked with chasing 165, Brook slotted in at number three and exploded for 100 off 51 balls—10 fours and 4 sixes—reaching fifty in 28 balls before sealing the deal. This propelled him into rare air as the fourth batter to score a chase century in T20 WC annals and the tournament’s first captain to reach three figures.
Delving into history, the list is short but stellar. In 2014, England’s Alex Hales lit up Sri Lanka with 116* off 64 (11×4, 6×6), masterminding a 190 chase in 19.2 overs as an opener setting the tone.
Chris Gayle followed suit in 2016 for West Indies versus England, blasting 100* off 48 (5×4, 11×6) to hunt down 183 in 18.1 overs—a brutal display of six-hitting that defined his legacy.
In the ongoing event, Pathum Nissanka’s 100* off 52 (10×4, 5×6) against Australia rescued Sri Lanka while chasing 182, wrapping it up in 18 overs with composure under pressure.
Intriguingly, Brook is the only one dismissed after his ton, yet his impact was undeniable. These chases exemplify T20’s high-octane drama, where individual brilliance can swing fortunes. England’s triumph positions them strongly, with Brook emerging as a talismanic leader ready for the knockout phase.