MAN-of-the-moment Pat Brown revealed part of his secret is blocking out “outside noise” – even advice from England star Moeen Ali.
The 20-year-old wowed Edgbaston with four wickets to help Worcestershire past Lancashire on T20 Finals Day and was his side’s most economic bowler by a distance when grabbing the glory against Sussex.
Moeen argued Brown would be “very close” to an England call-up on the back of his exploits and “wouldn't be surprised if he gets something in the winter” during his post-match press conference on Saturday.
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Brown was equally complimentary about the influence of his Rapids skipper but also insisted he would remain his own man – particularly with ball in hand.
“It is really nice to have him there, standing at mid-off next to me,” said Brown.
“He was in my ear a lot in the first few games we played together, giving me ideas but I think he realised that I have my own way of going about it.
“I will listen to his advice and maybe go with it but most of the time I try to keep it simple and don’t worry about changing too much.
“I feel like it is outside noise a lot of the time and it can put you off executing your skills. Generally, I will have the same field all the time and if I execute my skills, I should not get whacked.”
It has been a whirlwind year for Brown who admits to still coming to terms with the limelight which has seen England legend Jimmy Anderson talking up his international credentials.
“I keep using the same word, it is surreal,” said Brown.
“This is not something I expected, to feel this or to play at this level and on this kind of stage.
“Moeen is an unbelievable player who has gone around the world playing T20 and Jimmy Anderson is the leading seam-bowling wicket taker.
“To hear things like that really is unbelievable. It is nice to hear them talking about higher honours but I will let them do that because I know from last year how quickly it can change.”
If Brown does need a reality check, he will not have to wait long.
The University of Worcester student is scheduled to return for the final year of his studies this week at a time when his stock could not be higher.
“It brings me back down to earth quite nicely, getting up for lectures when all of the other lads are sleeping in,” said Brown.
“It is something I have to get on with. Once I’m finished I will be quite proud of doing that alongside my cricket.”
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