Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad has officially joined the South African cricket team as a consultant ahead of their World Test Championship (WTC) Final against Australia, set to be played at Lord’s from June 11, 2025. This marks Broad’s first coaching assignment since his retirement from international cricket in 2023.
Details of the Appointment
- Broad will attend South Africa’s training session at Lord’s on June 9, just two days before the WTC Final begins.
- His role is as a short-term consultant, focused on helping the Proteas’ bowlers prepare for the marquee clash against the defending champions, Australia.
- Broad will not be present in the South African dressing room during the match itself due to prior broadcasting commitments, but he will work closely with the team in the lead-up, particularly during their practice sessions.
Why Stuart Broad?
- Broad is one of the most successful fast bowlers in Test history, with 604 wickets in 167 Tests, second only to James Anderson among English bowlers.
- He holds the record for the most wickets taken against Australia by any bowler in Test cricket—153 wickets in 40 matches—making his expertise particularly valuable for South Africa as they plot to overcome their familiar rivals.
- Broad’s experience at Lord’s is also significant, with 113 wickets in 28 Tests at the historic ground, giving him unique insights into the conditions the Proteas will face.
South Africa’s Preparation
- The South African team, led by Temba Bavuma, has already arrived in the UK and will begin their preparations with a four-day warm-up match against Zimbabwe at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground starting June 4.
- The Proteas are aiming for their maiden WTC title, having topped the points table in the current cycle.
Also Read: Top 5 fast bowlers with highest wickets in Test cricket
Significance
Broad’s appointment is seen as a strategic move by South Africa to tap into his deep knowledge of Australian batters and English conditions, hoping his Ashes experience will give them a competitive edge in their quest for a first major ICC trophy since the 1998 Champions Trophy.
“Broad tormented the Kangaroos across five Ashes series and claimed a record 153 wickets against England’s arch-rivals, which is the most by any bowler in Test history. The legendary Englishman will now help the South Africa National Cricket Team to plan Australia’s downfall.”
Stuart Broad’s short-term consultancy is widely viewed as a tactical boost for South Africa as they prepare for one of the most significant matches in their cricketing history.
