Stuart Broad. (Photo Source: Twitter)
Stuart Broad scored just 11 runs in a seventh-wicket partnership of 108 along with Ben Stokes at Lord’s in the second innings of the second Ashes Test. However, his contribution was way more than what the scorecard would suggest.
Broad came to the crease after Jonny Bairstow was controversially stumped by Alex Carey off Cameron Green. Following the dismissal, Broad gave the opposition a mouthful during his stay in the middle. Fans also got behind the home team and created pressure on Pat Cummins’ side with boos and slogans.
Meanwhile, England eventually lost the match by 43 runs but gave Australia a scare after being way behind at one point. The 37-year-old said in a recent interview that he had intentionally gotten involved in a war of words with the Aussies.
“Sometimes I like to just get into a little battle for myself, I knew that it was such an important moment of that game at Lord’s and I needed to make sure I was mentally switched on and able to do a job for Ben Stokes at the other end. So, part of my strategy really was to pick a fight with a couple of Australians, so, I wouldn’t be focusing on too much technique. I would just be focusing on the ball and make sure I can stay there,” Broad told Sky Sports.
It’s not as if there’s a huge battle going on off the pitch: Stuart Broad
Broad talked about the historic rivalry between England and Australia but also mentioned that the teams have lunch in the same room and there is no animosity off the field.
“Part of Ashes cricket, the rivalry, the history of it is very much a great battle out there, and both teams have been really stuck in this series. A lot of the players know each other very well. There’s a lot of talking and smiles. We lunch in the same room. It’s not as if there’s a huge battle going on off the pitch. It’s just you’re playing for your country, I’d expect nothing less than showing a huge amount of passion and pride.”
Broad is the highest wicket-taker so far in Ashes 2023 as the right-arm pacer has picked up 16 wickets in three Tests so far. Australia are 2-1 up in the Ashes with two more games to play.