New Delhi: The Australian cricket team showed their respect and admiration for England’s veteran fast bowler Stuart Broad, who played his last international match on Sunday at the Oval. The Aussies formed a guard of honor for Broad as he walked out to bat in the second innings of the fifth and final Ashes Test.
Broad, who announced his retirement from all forms of cricket earlier this week, has been one of the most successful and consistent bowlers in the history of the game. He has taken 523 wickets in 147 Tests, 178 wickets in 121 ODIs, and 65 wickets in 56 T20Is. He is the second-highest wicket-taker for England in Tests, behind his long-time partner James Anderson.
Broad has also been a thorn in the side of the Australian batsmen, especially in the Ashes series. He has taken 118 wickets in 32 Ashes Tests, including eight five-wicket hauls and two ten-wicket hauls. He is the fourth-highest wicket-taker in Ashes history, behind Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, and Anderson.
The Australian captain Tim Paine said that his team wanted to pay tribute to Broad for his outstanding career and his contribution to the game. “He’s been a fantastic competitor and a great player for England. He’s given us a lot of headaches over the years, but we have a lot of respect for him as a cricketer and as a person. We wanted to show him that respect by giving him a guard of honor,” Paine said.
Broad, who scored 12 runs in his final innings, said that he was touched by the gesture from the Australians. “It was a very nice moment. I wasn’t expecting it, but it was very classy of them. I’ve had some great battles with them over the years, and I’ve enjoyed every minute of it. They are a tough team to play against, but they play the game in the right spirit,” Broad said.
Broad also thanked his teammates, coaches, family, and fans for their support throughout his career. “It’s been an incredible journey. I’ve been lucky to play with some amazing players and under some great captains and coaches. I’ve also had the best support from my family and friends, and the most passionate fans in the world. I’m very proud of what I’ve achieved, and I’m looking forward to the next chapter of my life,” Broad said.
