Stuart Broad is the ultimate Ashes warrior, he will be remembered for how good he was in his last series: Ricky Ponting

Ricky Ponting and Stuart Broad. (Photo Source: Visionhaus/Getty Images and Gareth Copley – ECB/ECB via Getty Images)

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has bestowed accolades upon Stuart Broad, who announced his retirement during the ongoing fifth Ashes Test at The Oval in London after Day 3 (Saturday, July 29).

An ‘Ashes warrior’ is how Ponting aptly described the speedster, extolling his longevity in the game. The veteran commended Broad for choosing the opportune moment to retire, having secured an impressive 600+ Test wickets with England leading the charge in the fifth Ashes Test.

A titan among bowlers, Broad stands tall as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in Tests, boasting an astounding tally of 602 scalps from 167 games. Notably, he holds the record for the most wickets in the history of the Ashes.

Ponting further expressed his admiration while speaking on Sky Sports, as he said:

“The ultimate Ashes warrior. I am a believer in judging players on longevity and maintaining such high standards at the absolute highest level. He has played 25 consecutive Ashes Tests at home, which is unbelievable in itself.”

The 48-year-old cricketing legend turned commentator emphasized Broad’s significance in the Ashes series, comparing him favorably to the renowned Ben Stokes, another illustrious warrior. For Broad, the Ashes became a stage to forge his name and reputation, and he can take immense pride in his accomplishments. As he bids farewell, it is during this final series that he truly shines, which will be a testament to his impeccable timing.

“We talk about Ben Stokes being the ultimate warrior but Broad is the ultimate Ashes warrior. He will be remembered for how good he was in his last series. It is about the perfect time to go,” Ponting added.

Broad is about big moments: Alastair Cook

Alastair Cook, the former England captain, echoed Ponting’s sentiments while expressing surprise at Broad’s decision to retire. His unexpected retirement has stirred emotions but leaves no doubt about his ability to deliver on important occasions.

“I’m a bit emotional and surprised but if you look at the schedule for Stuart Broad. You have India away, Sri Lanka and West Indies next summer. No offense to those sides but Broad is about big moments,” Cook said.

With a lead of 377 runs in the second innings at the end of Day 3, Ben Stokes and his team will strive to bid farewell to Stuart Broad with a resounding victory in the fifth Ashes Test.