Stuart Broad produced one of his finest spells in an England shirt as he ripped through the New Zealand batting line-up and closed in on a Test win at Lord’s.
The Nottinghamshire seamer, who has been a mainstay of the England side for more than a decade, was at his very best as he took four wickets in the space of just 11 balls to reduce the Black Caps to a precarious position.
Broad began his spell with the wicket of BJ Watling, who was caught behind for a duck, before trapping Ross Taylor lbw for a duck. He then had Colin de Grandhomme caught at slip for a duck, before bowling Neil Wagner for a duck.
The spell was a masterclass in swing bowling, with Broad using the conditions to his advantage to move the ball both ways off the seam. He was also able to extract extra bounce from the pitch, which made it difficult for the New Zealand batsmen to get on top of him.
Broad’s spell was the highlight of a superb day for England, who had earlier bowled out New Zealand for a paltry total of 204. The hosts then reached the close of play on day four on 131-2, with a lead of 498 runs.
It was a performance that was reminiscent of Broad’s best days, when he was one of the most feared bowlers in world cricket. He has been in good form in recent months, but this spell was something special.
Broad’s performance was also a reminder of why he is such an important part of the England team. He has been a consistent performer for the side for many years, and his ability to take wickets in the most testing of conditions is invaluable.
With the match now firmly in England’s grasp, Broad will be hoping to finish the job on the final day and secure a memorable victory for his side. If he can do that, then it will be a fitting reward for one of the finest spells of bowling in an England shirt.
