Last Updated on 5 years by Charbel Coorey
Stuart Broad has expressed his dissatisfaction at being left out of the ongoing first Test against West Indies. Speaking with Sky Sports, England’s second-highest wicket taker didn’t mince any words when discussing how he felt about the decision.
“I’m not a particularly emotional person but I’ve found the last couple of days quite tough,” Broad said. “To say I was disappointed would be an understatement; you’re disappointed if you drop your phone and the screen breaks.”
Broad then made mention of how well he has bowled in the last year in particular, playing a key role in England’s Ashes and South Africa campaigns. The seamer took 23 wickets at 26.65 in the Ashes, before taking 14 wickets at 19.42.
“I’m frustrated, angry and gutted. It’s difficult to understand. I’ve probably bowled the best I’ve ever bowled the last couple of years, I felt like it was my shirt. Having been in the team in the Ashes and going to South Africa and winning there.”

Broad spoke to national selector Ed Smith, who reassured him that he is still well in England’s plans for the near future. Specifically, Smith made mention of the fact that the Anderson-Wood-Archer trio was picked with the pitch in mind.
“I spoke to Ed Smith last night. He said he was involved in picking the 13 and this side was picked purely for this pitch,” Broad said. “I wanted clarification on my future going forward and I was given pretty positive feedback going forward. So yes, I was frustrated in the fact that I felt like I deserved a spot in the team.”
However, Broad then mirrored the thoughts of Darren Gough last month, stating that the competition for places is healthy.
“It’s great to see strength and depth in the fast bowling ranks. It’s the only way that England cricket moves forward and gets better. And with high competition in squads it keeps the standard high. Everyone is under pressure for their spots.”
Catch the interview here.
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