England captain Joe Root has defended his teammate Harry Brook, whose recent "beer smash" celebration at the crease has raised eyebrows. The 27-year-old all-rounder was involved in a late-night drinking scandal before captaining England to a series-winning 57-ball century against Sri Lanka.
Brook's post-match victory dance, which saw him take off his batting gloves and punch them together before tipping them towards his mouth, drew comparisons to the iconic "Stone Cold" Steve Austin celebration from the world of professional wrestling. Brook confirmed that he was paying tribute to the WWE legend, using the gesture as a lighthearted way to acknowledge his team-mates.
Root has said he hopes Brooks' antics will be received in the right spirit, emphasizing the importance of humor and approachability in building relationships within the team. "I think that's his way of doing that really," Root explained. "He's trying to show he wants that approval from the group, through humour."
This isn't the first time an England international has referenced a disciplinary issue in a celebration - former player Paul Gascoigne infamously performed the 'dentist's chair' after scoring a goal against Scotland in Euro 1996.
Root praised Brook for his performance and praised him for staying calm under pressure.
Brook's post-match victory dance, which saw him take off his batting gloves and punch them together before tipping them towards his mouth, drew comparisons to the iconic "Stone Cold" Steve Austin celebration from the world of professional wrestling. Brook confirmed that he was paying tribute to the WWE legend, using the gesture as a lighthearted way to acknowledge his team-mates.
Root has said he hopes Brooks' antics will be received in the right spirit, emphasizing the importance of humor and approachability in building relationships within the team. "I think that's his way of doing that really," Root explained. "He's trying to show he wants that approval from the group, through humour."
This isn't the first time an England international has referenced a disciplinary issue in a celebration - former player Paul Gascoigne infamously performed the 'dentist's chair' after scoring a goal against Scotland in Euro 1996.
Root praised Brook for his performance and praised him for staying calm under pressure.