England white-ball skipper Harry Brook smashed an unbeaten 114 off 49 balls as England beat Sri Lanka by 119 runs in the first T20I in Southampton. Ben Stokes hailed Brook after the knock, saying even Kevin Pietersen's "genius" could not match him talent-wise. Brook struck 10 fours and six sixes, powering England to 254/4 on Tuesday.

Former England captain Ben Stokes came out in support of Harry Brook after the England white-ball skipper produced a sensational unbeaten 114 against Sri Lanka in the first T20I in Southampton on Tuesday. Brook’s explosive knock helped England register a commanding 119-run victory, but it was Stokes’ huge praise for the batter that grabbed attention.

Brook smashed 114 not out off just 49 balls, hitting 10 fours and six sixes. His innings included six boundaries in a single over against Dunith Wellalage and powered England to a massive 254/4. He shared a 128-run partnership with Jos Buttler, who contributed 80 off 44 balls.

Ben Stokes Launches Stunning Defence Of Harry Brook

Following the performance, Stokes took to social media to respond to those who have questioned Brook’s consistency and shot selection, particularly in Test cricket. Drawing a comparison with England great Kevin Pietersen, Stokes wrote: “I don't even think the genius of KP could come close to what Brook has talent-wise. You are an absolute freak, Harry. You're mint to watch.”