Veteran England seamer Stuart Broad has dismissed hypothesis of a rift with former take a look at captain Joe Root, saying that it could be “pathetic” if he have been to fall out with him over being dropped for the tour of West Indies earlier this yr.
Broad and fellow paceman James Anderson, England’s high two wicket-takers in take a look at cricket, have been disregarded of the three-test collection within the Caribbean, which resulted in a 1-0 defeat and led to Root resigning as skipper.
Both returned to the aspect for the opening take a look at in opposition to New Zealand at Lord’s final week and have been instrumental in serving to the hosts to a five-wicket win in Ben Stokes’ first match as captain.
“Joe and I spoke at length when he stood down as captain and I said to him how much he’s meant to me as a captain, and what a privilege it was playing under him,” Broad instructed reporters.
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“I told him I hope he really enjoys the next few years. He’s already a legend of the game … Joe and I are great friends. I can’t fall out with someone because they don’t pick me in a team, that would be a bit pathetic.”
The 35-year-old picked up 4 wickets at Lord’s, together with two in a single over within the second innings that turned the match in England’s favour.
“I started this season not knowing if I’d pull on the England shirt again … it’s been one of the most fun weeks we’ve had as a team,” added Broad.
The second take a look at of the three-match collection will get underway at Trent Bridge on Friday.
