England’s skipper says his 2022 stint with Lahore Qalandars helped him understand Pakistani conditions and players ahead of the ODI tri-series.
England captain Harry Brook believes his experience with Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) played a key role in building his confidence against Pakistan ahead of the upcoming ODI tri-series.
The tournament, featuring England, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, will take place from October 18 to 31. England will begin their campaign against the hosts on October 20 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Brook said England were looking forward to testing themselves against Pakistan and Sri Lanka in subcontinental conditions, acknowledging that the hosts could present new challenges for his side in the 50-over format.
England Ready for Pakistan Challenge
England enter the tri-series after securing three consecutive series victories. Their recent results include home and away successes against Sri Lanka and a 2-1 series win over India in India.
While praising his team’s recent performances, Brook stressed that facing Pakistan would provide a different test for England as they continue to strengthen their ODI setup.
The England captain said the team had made considerable progress in recent months and was eager to experience the challenges presented by the two Asian sides.
He also highlighted the importance of the tri-series final, saying the opportunity to compete in a decisive match would help England evaluate their progress and prepare for high-pressure situations.
Brook added that playing in Pakistan offered a special atmosphere because of the passion of local cricket supporters and the intensity of crowds at international matches.
PSL Stint Helped Brook Understand Pakistani Conditions
The 27-year-old credited his participation in the PSL with Lahore Qalandars in 2022 for giving him valuable exposure to Pakistani pitches and players.
Brook explained that the tournament helped him become familiar with local conditions while competing alongside and against players who later featured for Pakistan at the international level.
According to the England captain, his performances during the PSL also provided a significant confidence boost before subsequent international assignments, including his encounters with Pakistan.
The experience allowed him to develop a clearer understanding of opposition players and the conditions they were accustomed to playing in.
Brook believes this familiarity has contributed to his confidence whenever England face Pakistan, making his PSL experience an important part of his development as an international cricketer.
England Begin Campaign on October 20
England will face Pakistan in their opening match on October 20 at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The encounter will offer both teams an opportunity to establish early momentum in the three-nation competition.
With Sri Lanka completing the lineup, the tournament is expected to provide valuable preparation and competitive exposure as England assess their performance in challenging subcontinental conditions.
Brook will be hoping his previous experience in Pakistan helps England make a strong start to their tri-series campaign.