Daijiworld Media Network – London

London, Aug 4: Former England Test captain Michael Vaughan has backed young batting sensation Harry Brook as the ideal successor to Ben Stokes, calling him a “born leader” whose on-field presence exudes authority and confidence.

Brook’s blistering knock of 111 off just 98 balls reignited England’s hopes in the ongoing Test, leaving them just 35 runs short of victory with four wickets in hand. Vaughan believes Brook’s temperament and leadership qualities stand out, especially in pressure situations.

“Harry Brook, to me, looks a leader. He looks a born leader,” Vaughan said on the Test Match Special podcast. "If Ben Stokes is injured in the future, can't Pope stay as vice-captain and Harry Brook gets the leadership role?"

While Ollie Pope, 27, has deputised for Stokes on multiple occasions — including the current Test, marking his fifth outing as stand-in skipper — Vaughan feels Brook is better suited for the top job when the time comes.

“Pope is a fantastic vice-captain and a brilliant person to have next to the captain to come up with ideas. But sometimes, vice-captains aren’t brilliant captains,” Vaughan said, citing his own experience leading England. “Marcus Trescothick was a magnificent vice-captain for me, but you wouldn’t want to give him the captaincy.”

Brook, who was earlier this year appointed captain of England’s white-ball team, made a successful start by leading the side to a series win against a weakened West Indies outfit.

“I just want the best captain — the best leader — leading the England side,” Vaughan added. “I don’t think a good vice-captain will necessarily be a good captain.”

Vaughan, who led England in 51 Tests and secured 26 wins, said that while he isn’t privy to the dynamics inside the dressing room, Brook’s composure and maturity on the field are hard to ignore.