Overview:
Brook and Markram recognized the difficulties bowlers face, highlighting the need for composed leadership, especially during high-scoring spells.
England skipper Harry Brook feels the T20 World Cup 2026 could witness unprecedented batting landmarks, with 300-plus scores not out of reach in Indian conditions. Addressing the media at the pre-tournament captains’ meet, Brook pointed to multiple venues across India where such tall totals are possible.
T20 cricket has witnessed only two full-member teams going past the 300-run milestone. England powered their way to 304 against South Africa earlier in 2025, while Zimbabwe set the gold standard the previous year by compiling a colossal 344 versus Gambia, the highest innings score in the history of the format.
Brook flagged the challenge for bowlers when fast outfields meet short boundary lines. Towering totals are now a regular feature of T20s, fuelled by truer surfaces, modern power-hitting gear and an increasingly fearless approach at the crease.
“India has several grounds where a total of 300 or more is definitely possible,” Brook said.
“The wickets are looking excellent at the moment, with quick outfields and pretty short boundaries. You’ve just got to stay fearless, focus less on the possibility of getting out, and keep taking on the bowlers,” he added.
South Africa skipper Aiden Markram offered insight into the shift in batting approaches, noting that players now plan their innings around sequences of balls rather than traditional over-by-over calculations.
“The game is evolving rapidly. We’ve reached a point where it’s not about winning overs anymore, but focusing on small clusters of balls. Stringing together a few good deliveries can have a huge impact, which is why you do feel sorry for the bowlers,” Markram said.
Both Brook and Markram recognized the difficulties bowlers face, highlighting the need for composed leadership, especially during high-scoring spells.
“Staying calm is key, as much as you can,” Brook said.
“At times, you need to slow the game down, but when you’re in control, speed it up. Above all, staying calm is key, and you’ve got to help your bowlers stay composed too.”