'It's a Big Miss, But...We All Must Wish Harry Well': Nasser Hussain on Harry Brook's Abrupt Departure From England Squad

Former England skipper Nasser Hussain stated that the loss of Harry Brook, who has returned home, is a huge blow to the England side facing off against India in a five-match Test series, but also emphasized that Brook should tend to his personal and familial welfare primarily.

The England Cricket Board confirmed that Harry Brook was set to leave the squad for the upcoming Test series against India. The statement made by the ECB stated that Brook is set to return to the United Kingdom citing ‘personal reasons.’

“Yeah, it’s a big miss. But the first consideration has to be the individual, the duty of care of that individual. We all must wish Harry and his family well.” Nasser Hussain said to Sky Sports when talking about Harry Brook’s absence.

Brook has been a revelation in the current England Test side especially. The Yorkshire batter, under the guidance of Brendon McCullum and his ‘Bazball’ approach, has flourished with the bat, notching 1181 runs in just 12 Tests for England, at a staggering average of 61.

The 24-year-old has already scored 4 centuries and 7 fifties in his short Test career so far.

So, his absence will be a big blow to England’s batting unit as the side will aim to break their decade-long streak of not being able to win a Test series in India. But, Hussain highlighted the importance of tending to one’s personal health and family first, and backed Brook for taking the right call.

“Test cricket is important, but your family and yourself are more important. For personal reasons, he has headed home. Hopefully, everything will be okay,” Hussain said.

Due to Brook’s abrupt departure from the squad, England were forced to come up with last-minute replacement, and 26-year-old Dan Lawrence was the man called up.

Hussain made sure to give Lawrence his due credit, hailing him to be a ‘seriously good cricketer’ and said that he would be a valuable addition to the side as he can offer a bit of spin with the ball as well.

“They like Lawrence, he offers a bit of spin as well. It’s a blow for the lads who are with the Lions, but they are for the reason. But Dan Lawrence is a seriously good cricketer,” Hussain further said.

The five-match Test series between India and England will kick off with the first match being played in Hyderabad on Thursday, January 25.