'I deserved a spot in the team' - Stuart Broad 'frustrated' after being dropped for first Test against West Indies

The world witnessed the return of international cricket as the much-awaited Test series between England and West Indies kicked off from July 8 at Southampton. Stand-in skipper Ben Stokes, after winning the toss, chose to field as players from both sides were seen maintaining social distance in the wake of COVID-19 pandemic.

England batsmen bowed down to Shannon Gabriel and Jason Holder as they picked four and six wickets respectively to curb England to a modest total of 204 runs. Jos Buttler (35) and Dom Bess (31) were the only two batsmen to stuck at the crease for a prolonged period of time.

Amid the return of international cricket, one notable exclusion from England’s squad was of veteran Stuart Broad. The Three Lions opted for the services of Jofra Archer, Mark Wood and James Anderson, keeping Broad out of the picture. Broad was also in England’s 13-man squad for the opener of the three-match Test series.

The pacer is only second to James Anderson in the list of England’s all-time Test wicket-takers. Following his omission from the Playing XI, Broad didn’t hold back to express his disappointment.

“I found out about 6:00 pm the night before the game,” said Broad in an interview with Sky Sports. “Stokesy told me we were just going with extra pace in these conditions,” he added.

I’m frustrated, angry, gutted: Stuart Broad

34-year-old Broad, who has vast experience under his belt, also revealed that he had spoken to England national selector Ed Smith about his future with the side, to which he had got a positive response. Broad also expressed his frustration saying that he deserved a spot in the team and also added that he’ll be aiming to return back for the second Test.

“I wanted clarification about my future going forward and I was given pretty positive feedback. I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough. To say I was disappointed would be an understatement… I’m frustrated, angry, gutted,” said Broad.

“It’s difficult to understand. I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled the last couple of years — I felt it was my shirt. We are also in a fairly unique position this summer. Very rarely do you get all your bowlers fit like we’ve got at this minute,” he added.

With England slated to play six Tests in seven weeks, it is likely that Broad will get a chance to get involved on the field. Following the West Indies series, England are slated to lock horns with Pakistan in three Tests and as many T20Is.

“I felt like I deserved a spot in the team, as would anyone else. Now I’ll be doing as much as I can in the next week so make sure I’m available for Old Trafford,” rued Broad.