Kumar Sangakkara did not hold back in his criticism of Harry Brook after the young England batter's dismissal on Day 4 of the Lord's Test against India. Brook, the number one ranked batter in the ICC rankings, came to the crease with an aggressive mindset, taking on Indian pacer Akash Deep with two fours and a six in the same over. However, his attacking approach ultimately led to his downfall.

Facing Akash Deep, Brook attempted a premeditated sweep shot. The delivery was pitched up, slanting towards the stumps. Brook bent across to sweep, but the ball slipped past his bat and crashed into the middle stump. Akash Deep's exuberant celebration reflected the treatment he had just received at Brook's hands.

Sangakkara, who was commentating at the time, felt Brook should have been smarter with his approach. He described the dismissal as "arrogance" rather than a display of confidence or tactical aggression associated with 'Bazball'. "I think it's a bit of arrogance, not even overconfidence, it's not even Bazball, it's just arrogance". Ravi Shastri echoed this sentiment, expressing disappointment at Brook's shot selection.

Sangakkara questioned Brook's decision-making, saying, "I wonder if they've changed fine leg fine, and he wanted to go square. That is not a scoop. The scoop he plays with ease, and this is a sweep, normally played off a spinner, and that was way too much room". He added, "15 minutes to go for lunch, counterattack started. This is not smart batting".

Brook's dismissal occurred at a critical juncture, with England already struggling, having lost quick wickets in their second innings. While Brook's aggressive intent was evident, his execution was lacking. Instead of taking easy singles or doubles, he opted for a risky slog-sweep. This misjudgment proved costly, as the ball crashed into the stumps.

This isn't the first time Brook has been dismissed in this manner. Earlier in the series, Akash Deep had also bowled him. Sangakkara has previously pointed out a potential flaw in Brook's technique, suggesting that his tendency to set up outside off stump makes him vulnerable to incoming deliveries. He advised Brook to consider batting closer to middle stump to counter this.

Despite this criticism, Sangakkara has also praised Brook's talent and simplicity. He appreciates Brook's straightforward technique and his intent to score runs. In the past, Sangakkara has encouraged Brook to continue playing his natural game and not get confused by external factors.

Brook has been a key part of England's 'Bazball' approach, which emphasizes aggressive and positive cricket. Since his Test debut in 2022, he has amassed 1,434 runs at an average of 59.75, with a strike rate exceeding 90. However, his recent dismissal at Lord's has raised questions about his shot selection and decision-making in pressure situations.