England vs West Indies: Stuart Broad in touching distance of joining elite list of Test bowlers
Stuart Broad’s presence in the England playing XI made a massive difference during the second Test match against West Indies as the experienced medium pacer picked up six crucial wickets to help the hosts win the match and tie the series 1-1.
With England looking to rotate its fast bowlers, Broad’s absence from the first Test cost them the match. Broad’s expertise lies in being able to make the most of the seam and swing friendly conditions in England and the difference was visible when he came back into the playing XI for the second Test.
With James Anderson back in the team for the decider of the series, Broad will get to share the new ball with his long time partner for the first time in this series. The paceman is on the cusp of a huge record, which he would want to complete in this Test match.
Broad currently has 491 wickets to his name in 139 matches at an average of 28.38. He needs just four more wickets to emulate Anderson and become the second England bowler to pick up 500 Test wickets.
He will in fact become only the fourth paceman to breach the 500-wicket mark and the seventh bowler overall, if he reaches the milestone.
He will be the slowest to reach the 500-wicket milestone. Muttiah Muralitharan completed the feat in 87 matches followed by Anul Kumble (105) and Shane Warne (108).
Glenn McGrath picked up his 500th Test wicket in his 110th Test while Courtney Walsh and Anderson breached the mark in their 129th Test match respectively. Broad would have wanted to reach the mark earlier but he has had to share wickets with the equally prolific Anderson for the major part of his career.
Irrespective of the time taken, Broad will definitely be in august company once he reaches the milestone.
HT
