English cricketer Stuart Broad, one of the top Test pacers in history with over 600 Test wickets, surprised fans by announcing his retirement from international cricket after the end of Day 3 of the final Ashes Test. At 37 years old, Broad formed a lethal bowling partnership with James Anderson in the longest format of the game.
Before the start of Day 4, the Australian players showed respect by forming a guard of honor for Broad. However, the touching moment came when Broad, during the guard of honor, embraced his long-term bowling partner, James Anderson, and took him along. This gesture made Nasser Hussain, the former English captain who was commentating at the time, emotional and he teared up witnessing their camaraderie.
Broad’s final contribution with the bat was a six against Mitchell Starc, scoring England’s last runs before they were bowled out for 395. Unfortunately, Anderson got out in the next over, trying a reverse-sweep against Todd Murphy.
Australia had already retained the Ashes series with a 2-1 lead going into the final Test in London. However, they were determined to spoil Broad’s farewell by aiming for their first Ashes series win on English soil since 2001.
Stuart Broad’s retirement marks the end of an era in English cricket, as he leaves behind a remarkable legacy as one of the greatest fast bowlers of all time. His gesture towards Anderson during the guard of honor exemplified the strong bond they shared throughout their careers, adding an emotional touch to the farewell.
Watch Stuart Broad’s Emotional Farewell Video
Stuart Broad makes his way to the pitch with Jimmy Anderson 🥺💫 pic.twitter.com/dpDJ5eoSt5
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) July 30, 2023
For the final time with the bat…@StuartBroad8 and @Jimmy9 head out to the middle together 🤩
A special moment 🥰#EnglandCricket | #Ashes pic.twitter.com/6sL5K7vuQL
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) July 30, 2023