Veteran fast bowler Stuart Broad has acknowledged the significant absence of Virat Kohli from the ongoing Test series between India and England, labelling it a big loss. Kohli has been unavailable for the first two Tests and will continue to miss the remaining three matches due to personal reasons. Despite recognizing Kohli’s impact on the contest, Broad sees this as a golden opportunity for young players to showcase their talent on the grand stage.
Reflecting on the series, Stuart Broad noted, “The battle between Virat and England bowlers had been great in the past. Anderson and Kohli’s battles are quite famous. It’s a shame for the series and the sport that he will be missing.” Broad emphasized Kohli’s unique qualities, bringing fire, passion, competitiveness, and a significant fan following to the sport.
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The absence of the Indian captain has indeed exposed the vulnerability of the home team’s middle order, particularly against the English spin attack, leading to a loss in the first Test. However, Broad sees this as an opportunity for emerging talents to step up, citing Yashaswi Jaiswal’s brilliant double century in the second Test as an example.
Acknowledging the competitiveness of the series, Stuart Broad expressed, “It is one of the most exciting India-England Test series that I have seen. It is the most level series.” He further highlighted England’s effective playing style, known as ‘Bazball,’ which could pose a challenge to the Indian team in the absence of Kohli.
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Praising the performance of seamers on the Rajkot surface, Broad commended Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah for his match-winning contribution and lauded former bowling partner James Anderson. With the series poised at 1-1, the third Test in Rajkot is set to unfold on February 15, offering both teams a chance to gain the upper hand.
Stuart Broad also recognized Anderson’s imminent milestone of reaching 700 wickets and highlighted his effectiveness in contributing to victories. Anderson, with 179 Test wickets against India in 68 tests, remains a pivotal force in England’s bowling lineup.
