England’s pace bowling stalwart, Stuart Broad, has officially declared his retirement from cricket, bringing an end to his illustrious 17-year career. The announcement was made by Broad himself after Day 3 of the final Ashes Test at The Oval.
Throughout his remarkable journey in the sport, Broad has solidified his status as one of the greatest pacers in cricketing history. With over 600 wickets to his name, he stands at the fifth position on the all-time list of leading wicket-takers.
He shares this prestigious achievement with his long-time bowling partner, Jimmy Anderson, making them the only two fast bowlers to achieve such a remarkable feat.
Test cricket proved to be Broad’s happy hunting ground, where he showcased his exceptional skills as a fast bowler. He holds the distinction of being the sole English player to claim two hat-tricks in Test matches.
Among his many memorable performances, one of his finest hours came against arch-rivals Australia in 2015, when he etched his name in cricketing folklore by delivering an astounding 8/15 spell at Trent Bridge.
BREAKING π¨: Stuart Broad announces he will retire from cricket after the Ashes ends. pic.twitter.com/dNv8EZ0qnC
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 29, 2023
Even at the age of 37, Broad continued to exhibit top-notch form and was firing on all cylinders. However, he decided to retire while at the peak of his game, revealing his intentions to the captain the night before the announcement.
As his fans bid farewell to a remarkable career, let’s take a moment to appreciate some fascinating facts about the extraordinary Stuart Broad, who has left an indelible mark on the world of cricket.
Stuart Broad: A Remarkable Journey of Skill and Resilience
Stuart Christofer John Broad, born on 24th June 1986, embarked on a miraculous journey in cricket that spanned over 16 years. His life took an unexpected turn when he was born 12 weeks prematurely, and it was thanks to a doctor named John that he survived. In gratitude, Broad incorporated “John” into his name.
Hailing from a cricketing family, Broad’s father, Chris Broad, was a former English player who achieved significant success, amassing 3022 runs in 59 games.
Forever remembered for ππ΅πΌππ² mesmerising spells, ππ΅πΌππ² Ashes battles, ππ΅πΌππ² 602* wickets.
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 29, 2023
Take a bow, Stuart Broad π#EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/6WvdTW5AoA
Presently, Chris Broad works as a match referee in professional cricket matches.
- Following in his father’s footsteps, Stuart initially started as a batsman. However, a sudden growth spurt at the age of 17, taking him to a towering 6.6 ft, prompted him to focus on fast bowling β a decision that would define his legendary career.
- Not only excelling in cricket, but Broad also displayed versatility in sports. Before pursuing professional cricket, he played field hockey as a goalkeeper and even tried out for the England national hockey team.
- Broad’s cricketing journey began at Leicestershire, where he played for their 2nd xi team before turning 18.
- Stuart’s impressive performances caught the eye of the club’s director, earning him a contract with the prime side.
Broad made his maiden first-class appearance against Durham University Centre of Cricketing Excellence.
Best of Stuart Broad in Test Cricket
- Affectionately called “Broady” and “Malfoy” by his teammates, Stuart Broad made his debut in international cricket in a T20 match against Pakistan in 2006. He showcased his talent by taking 2 wickets for 35 runs in 4 overs.
- Despite encountering challenges, Broad’s determination and skill eventually led him to a stellar career. He reached the pinnacle of success with England, winning the 2010 T20 World Cup and claiming 8 wickets in 7 matches in the tournament.
- One of the most memorable moments in Broad’s career was when Yuvraj Singh smashed him for six sixes in the 2007 World Cup. This pivotal incident motivated him to become one of the best bowlers in test cricket.
- Forming a formidable pair with James Anderson, Broad joined the elite club of bowling pairs with over 500 wickets in test cricket, relentlessly carrying the England team in the longest format of the game.
- Throughout his career, Broad displayed exceptional performances, including two hat-tricks in test cricket β one against India in 2011 and the other against Sri Lanka in 2014.
- Lord’s cricket ground holds a special place in Broad’s heart, where he achieved two 5-wicket hauls and scored his career-best Test score of 169 against Pakistan in 2010.
The year 2013 proved to be a remarkable year for Broad, as he took an astounding 62 wickets, the most by any bowler in 14 matches, including 5 five-wicket hauls.
- In 2008, former England cricketer Geoffrey Boycott likened Broad’s all-around ability to the great Sir Garfield Sobers during a match against South Africa.
How many wickets will retiring pacer Stuart Broad finish on at the end of his Test career?#WTC25 | #ENGvAUS
— ICC (@ICC) July 30, 2023
More on Broad's retirement: https://t.co/Of8YHHkR13 pic.twitter.com/Jen96GvPp6
- The path to greatness was not without challenges. During a test match against India in 2014, Broad suffered a painful blow to the nose by a Varun Aaron bouncer, leading to a brief exit from the ground with blood and injury to his eyes.
- Off the field, Broad indulges in his passion for cooking, favoring dishes like Lasagne and Spaghetti Bolognese.
Recognizing his immense contribution to English cricket, Broad was honored as a Member of the Order of the British Empire in 2016.
- With a remarkable career, Broad played in only one overseas T20 league, representing Hobart Hurricanes in 2016-17.
- After a phenomenal journey of 602 test wickets, Stuart Broad bid farewell to international cricket at the end of the Ashes 2023 in July.
In the world of cricket, Stuart Broad will be remembered as one of the finest fast bowlers, a true legend who left an indelible mark on the sport he loved. As fans celebrate his achievements, many are curious about his net worth, estimated to be $11 million β a testament to his success and legacy in the cricketing world.
