Brook overtook Joe Root on Wednesday to snatch the top spot on the latest ICC Men's Test Batter Rankings, with the dethroning coming after some incredible performances away from home, including a triple ton in Pakistan and some big centuries during the ongoing three-Test tour of New Zealand.
English batters Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, and Harry Brook all smashed blistering half-centuries as England raced to 378/5 at stumps on the second day's play in Wellington.
Atkinson continued his fine run in Test cricket, registering a hat-trick during the second Test against New Zealand at Wellington on Saturday. Atkinson accomplished this feat against the Kiwis at Wellington, removing Nathan Smith, Matt Henry and Tim Southee in successive deliveries in the 35
Star batter Joe Root made history on Saturday as he became the first player from England and overall only fourth to touch the landmark of 100 or more fifty-plus scores in Test cricket.
Atkinson accomplished this feat against the Kiwis at Wellington, removing Nathan Smith, Matt Henry and Tim Southee in successive deliveries in the 35th over to get them bundled out for just 125 runs.
During the second Test against New Zealand, Brook arrived at the crease with four England wickets down early and unleashed a counter-attack masterclass. He went on to score 123 in 115 balls, with 11 fours and five sixes. His runs came at a strike rate of 106.95.