Stuart Broad announces retirement from professional cricket at end of Ashes Test

In a heartfelt decision, Stuart Broad revealed that the ongoing fifth Test of the Ashes series would mark the end of his illustrious professional career.

The announcement came to light on Friday evening during the second day of the Test at The Oval. Emotions were running high as he shared the news with his long-standing teammates, James Anderson and Joe Root, just after play on Saturday.

“It's been a wonderful ride, a huge privilege to wear the Nottinghamshire and the England badge as much as I have,” Broad expressed with deep emotion during an interview with Sky Sports at the close of the third day's play.

“And I'm loving cricket as much as I ever have. It's been such a wonderful series to be a part of, and I've always wanted to finish at the top. And this series just feels like it's been one of the most enjoyable and entertaining I've been a part of.”

“I told Stokesy [Ben Stokes] last night and told the changing room this morning and, to be honest, it just felt the right time and I didn't want friends or Nottinghamshire team-mates to see things that might come out, so I prefer to just say it now, and just give it a good crack for the last Australia innings.

“I have thought a lot about it, and even up till 8pm last night, I was 50/50. But when I went up to Stokesy's room and told him, I have felt really happy since and content with everything I have achieved.”

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Stuart Broad, a true legend

Broad, renowned for his mastery with the ball, will retire as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in Test history, a remarkable achievement that solidifies his legacy in the sport. With 600 Test wickets under his belt, he stands second among seam bowlers, only trailing his teammate and fellow great, James Anderson.

Throughout his impressive career, Broad has been an indispensable force in Ashes cricket, having played in every home Ashes Test since his debut series against Australia in 2009. He leaves behind a remarkable record of 104 wickets at an average of 26.56 in 25 home Tests. During the course of the ongoing series, he surpassed Ian Botham's long-standing record for the highest number of Test wickets against Australia, with an impressive tally of 151.

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The decision to retire was not made lightly, as Broad had been contemplating it for several weeks.

However, the significance of the Ashes and the desire to end his career on this prestigious stage played a pivotal role in his final call.

“England vs. Australia has always been the pinnacle for me – I have loved the battles with Australia that have come my way and the team's way, I have a love affair with Ashes and I think I wanted my last bat and bowl to be in Ashes cricket,” he shared.

After retiring, Broad is expected to transition to a new role with Sky Sports. However, his immediate priority lies with spending quality time with his fiancée Mollie King and their young daughter, Annabella, who was born in November the previous year.

The joy of fatherhood and the opportunity to be more present for his family weighed heavily in his decision.

Stuart Broad
Photo by Icon Sport

As for his long-standing teammate and friend, James Anderson, Broad confidently stated that Anderson would continue to grace the cricketing world with his extraordinary skills. “Jimmy will carry on, definitely,” he assured, dismissing any speculations about Anderson's retirement during this series.

With a stunning career behind him, Stuart Broad leaves a lasting legacy in the cricketing world, and his contributions to the sport will be cherished and celebrated for years to come.

RohitRohit

Rohit is an experienced cricket writer based in India