ECB release schedule for the Ashes series against Australia
10 April 2023
The England Cricket Board (ECB) has revealed an extensive schedule for the summer of 2023, which includes a five-game Ashes series against Australia
Ashes 2023: England fast bowler Stuart Broad announces retirement from International cricket after the Ashes
Toby Marshall
Following the conclusion of the third day’s play at The Oval, Stuart Broad made a significant announcement, revealing that the fifth Ashes Test would be his final match, marking the end of his 17-year career representing England in all three formats.
Broad, a remarkable pacer and one of only two bowlers to surpass 600 Test wickets, along with James Anderson, achieved another feat during the Oval Test. He became only the third bowler to claim 150+ Test wickets in the Ashes series. His remarkable career will see him retire as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in Test cricket.
Currently boasting 602 Test wickets, Broad still has the opportunity to add to his tally during Australia’s chase. Additionally, he can contribute to his runs tally of 3656 when England resumes their second innings at 389/9. Over the course of his impressive career spanning 167 Tests, Broad has taken eight five-wicket hauls and one ten-wicket haul.
Expressing immense gratitude, he acknowledged the privilege of representing Nottinghamshire and England throughout his illustrious career. The ongoing series has been particularly enjoyable for him, and he wanted to bid farewell to the sport on a positive note.
His decision to retire had been under contemplation for a few weeks, and the significance of playing against Australia in the Ashes had always held a special place for him. Stuart Broad cherishes the battles he encountered both personally and with the team, forming a lasting bond with Ashes cricket. His desire was to have his final moments on the cricket field tied to the Ashes series.
Having last played an ODI in 2016, Stuart Broad concluded his limited-overs career with an impressive tally of 178 wickets. In the T20I format, his last match took place in 2014, during which he accumulated 65 wickets. Regarded as one of the sport’s great pacers, Broad’s Test debut occurred in 2007 against Sri Lanka, marking the commencement of his remarkable journey.
Test cricket served as a fertile ground for the English pacer, where he secured two hat-tricks, making him the sole English player to achieve this feat. A defining moment in his Test career came against arch-rivals Australia when he etched his name into cricketing folklore with a sensational bowling performance of 8 for 15 at Trent Bridge.
Despite being 37 years old, Broad continued to deliver exceptional performances, consistently showcasing his prowess. However, he chose to retire while at the pinnacle of his game, sharing his decision with the team’s captain the previous night.
