Adil Rashid backs Harry Brook as future England captain

JOIN OUR WHATSAPP CHANNEL

Leg spinner Adil Rashid has expressed his confidence in Harry Brook's ability to flourish as the captain of the Northern Superchargers and believes this could be the beginning of a journey that might lead Brook to captain England in the future.

The Hundred franchise announced Brook as their skipper for the 2024 tournament earlier in July, and the 25-year-old will assume the role for Tuesday's fixture against Southern Brave at Headingley. 

Brook, who has previously led England's Under-19 team and is third in the ICC Test batting rankings, was chosen over more experienced figures amid speculation that he could potentially replace national white-ball captain Jos Buttler.

England teammate Rashid shared his optimism, stating, "With Brooky having the captaincy, it is something fresh and hopefully looking forward into the future it is something I personally believe he can take (forward).

"He will bring that calmness, that clarity, obviously he will bring those world-class skills as a player.

"It is an exciting time for him to lead the Superchargers, the first time he is doing it, but he has all the backing of everyone here.

"Potentially (it could lead to the England captaincy). Everyone starts somewhere.

Rashid also highlighted the potential for Brook's future leadership roles, adding, "Some captains started at 22 or 23, got into that role and become captain of more squads and teams as they got better, with more experience and they gained more confidence. When that happens, naturally they go on further and represent England (as captain)," he said.

"This is definitely a starter for him to captain here at the Superchargers and it is just about getting that experience. I am sure he will be a captain that is calm, but is positive and looks at things in a positive manner," he added.

Adding to the excitement of Brook's captaincy is his partnership with Andrew 'Freddie' Flintoff, who has been appointed head coach of the franchise. Flintoff's first head coach role in the sport comes after his return to cricket last year following a severe accident while filming for the BBC show Top Gear. 

Since then, he has been a regular presence around the England setup and has been suggested as a replacement for the under-fire Matthew Mott.

Reflecting on Flintoff's leadership, Rashid said, "I think Fred is a natural leader," Rashid reflected.

"When he does speak, people listen and get inspired by his talk, by the language he uses, which is a big positive. To listen to someone who has been there, done it, I am sure he will do wonders.

"He also brings something fresh, something new as to how he looks at cricket as a coach with that enjoyment factor, that freedom to express yourself. So far he has fitted in really well.

Rashid is confident that Brook and Flintoff will form a strong partnership. 

"Both Fred and Brooky are very calm individuals, but also very confident, very positive and fearless characters," he said.

"I am sure them two will complement each other really well on and off the pitch. We have a great bunch of lads here in terms of cricketing ability and minds so hopefully everything clicks well," he added.

Flintoff experienced defeat in his maiden match on Friday but will soon have Ben Stokes available. Additionally, Rashid, the overall leading wicket-taker in the competition with 31 scalps, is excited for the 100-ball tournament to attract more fans to the sport. Last week, the Yorkshire spinner had a mural unveiled at Bradford Cricket Ground.

Rashid acknowledged, "Yeah, it's a great feeling.

"Hopefully young kids see it and are inspired to potentially play cricket and become a professional. Knowing it is possible regardless of where you come from, religion, race or background, it is doable."