In a historic moment for English cricket, Stuart Broad has etched his name alongside the legendary James Anderson as the second fast bowler to claim 600 Test wickets. Broad achieved this remarkable feat during the fourth Test against Australia in Manchester, solidifying his position as one of the greatest bowlers of all time.
Beginning the match at 598 wickets, Broad wasted no time in reaching the milestone. England's decision to bowl first proved fruitful as he dismissed Usman Khawaja early in the game, taking his tally to 599.
After the tea break, Broad returned to the field with a renewed determination, and it was Travis Head who fell victim to his relentless bowling, allowing him to enter the illustrious 600-wicket club.
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With an average of 27.57, Stuart Broad 600 wickets represent a testament to his unwavering skill and resilience throughout his career. Among these impressive figures are an impressive 20 five-wicket hauls and three incredible 10-wicket hauls. Notably, he holds the distinction of amassing the most wickets against Australia, claiming 149 scalps in 39 matches.
An ecstatic Broad expressed his disbelief at achieving this remarkable milestone, sharing his humble beginnings and aspirations for success. “Never in my dreams did I think this would be a thing,” he told BBC Sport. Reflecting on his journey, he credited former captain Michael Vaughan for granting him his Test cap and emphasized his desire to win series and create lasting memories.
Broad's exceptional performances against Australia have propelled him beyond the legendary Ian Botham as the leading wicket-taker against the Aussies. His tally of 149 dismissals against the old rivals surpasses the previous record, firmly establishing him in the pantheon of Ashes cricket. Only the Australian trio of Shane Warne, Dennis Lillee, and Glenn McGrath have claimed more wickets in Ashes Tests.
Throughout his career, Broad has displayed an uncanny mastery over Australian opener David Warner, having dismissed him a staggering 17 times. This places him in the elite company of only two other players who have dismissed a single batsman more frequently in Test cricket.
Additionally, Broad holds the unique distinction of being the sole England bowler to have taken two Test hat-tricks, achieved against India in 2011 and Sri Lanka in 2014. These extraordinary feats further solidify his position as a true giant of the game.
Stuart Broad 600 wickets: What he says of the moment
Speaking about his achievement, Broad expressed his gratitude to his teammates, stating that playing alongside the likes of Joe Root and Ben Stokes has reignited his passion for Test cricket. He highlighted the camaraderie and freedom within the changing room, likening the atmosphere to playing club cricket at the highest level.
Broady leading the team off after reaching 6️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ Test wickets for England 🏴
A simply staggering contribution over the years 👏#EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/Stdf4jLT6L — England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 19, 2023
As Stuart Broad celebrates this monumental achievement, his name will forever be enshrined among the greats of the game. His unwavering dedication, unmatched skill, and numerous records are a testament to his undeniable status as one of England's finest cricketing icons. The mark he has left on the sport will be cherished for generations to come.
After Stuart Broad 600 wickets, who are the top wicket-takers in Tests?
The list of top wicket-takers in Test cricket is a list of bowling greatness. At the pinnacle of this elite group stands Muttiah Muralidaran, who took an astonishing 800 wickets in just 133 matches. The Sri Lankan spin wizard had unparalleled mastery over his craft which established him as the most successful bowler in the history of the game.
Following closely behind Muralidaran is the enigmatic Australian leg-spinner Shane Warne, who left a mark on the sport with his 708 Test wickets in 145 matches. Warne's mesmerizing deliveries and ability to deceive batsmen with his guile and turn made him a true icon of the game.
| Bowler | Matches | Wickets |
| Muttiah Muralidaran | 133 | 800 |
| Shane Warne | 145 | 708 |
| James Anderson | 182* | 688 |
| Anil Kumble | 132 | 619 |
| Stuart Broad | 166* | 600 |
The English duo of James Anderson and Stuart Broad have also etched their names in the record books. Anderson's remarkable career has seen him claim 688 wickets in 182* matches, making him the leading wicket-taker among pacers. His ability to swing the ball both ways with precision and extract movement off the pitch has made him a nightmare for batsmen.
Meanwhile, Broad, Anderson's long-time partner in the England bowling attack, has reached the monumental milestone of 600 Test wickets in 166* matches. Broad's relentless accuracy, skiddy pace, and the ability to generate bounce have troubled numerous batsmen throughout his illustrious career. His feat of becoming only the second fast bowler to breach the 600-wicket mark showcases his consistency and longevity in the game.
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As Broad joins the elite ranks of Test cricket's top wicket-takers, his achievements stand as a testament to his unwavering commitment, skill, and determination. Alongside the likes of Muralidaran, Warne, Anderson, and Kumble, Broad has made a soli impression as an explosive fast bowler, earning his place among the greatest bowlers to have graced the Test arena.
