Harry Brook leads England into T20 World Cup last four after tough winter

Harry Brook scored a century to steer England into the T20 World Cup semi-finals, and said the past months had been "probably the hardest of my life".

Harry Brook hit a century as England beat Pakistan to secure a place in the T20 World Cup last four. He described recent months as "probably the hardest of my life" after a difficult Ashes series and a reported off-field altercation in Wellington. The change in his batting slot was suggested on the morning of the game by head coach Brendon McCullum. Brook said the move to No 3 was intended to maximise the powerplay and put opposition bowlers under pressure. Match facts: - Brook scored a century that helped England clinch the win needed to reach the tournament semi-finals. - He batted at No 3 in a T20 international for the first time, following a suggestion from coach Brendon McCullum. - Brook said the winter had been very testing and that the innings felt like a reward for his hard work. - His T20 average against Pakistan is reported as 62.66 from 10 innings, and his Test average against them is reported as 84.1 from the same number of knocks. - Pakistan's Shaheen Shah Afridi took four wickets in the match, including Brook's with his final delivery, and praised Brook's innings. Summary: Brook's century moved England into the World Cup last four and was noted by teammates and opponents alike. Discussions between Brook and coach Brendon McCullum about his regular batting position were reported as the next matter to be decided.