Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad has voiced sharp criticism and clear frustration over the national team's underwhelming performance on the third day of the ongoing day-night Ashes Test at Brisbane's Gabba. Broad believes the highly-rated English side is operating at a mere fraction of its true capability.
Australia's Lower Order Piles on the Misery
The day began with Australia resuming their first innings, and despite an early wicket, the hosts managed to stretch their total to a commanding 511 runs. The tail wagged significantly as Mitchell Starc played a blistering knock of 77 runs, combining with Scott Boland (21) in a crucial 75-run partnership for the ninth wicket. This lower-order resistance pushed Australia to a formidable position, leaving England with a mountain to climb.
England's Top-Order Collapse Undoes Promising Start
In response, England's second innings flickered to life briefly, racing to 48 runs in the first seven overs. However, the promise quickly evaporated as Australia's pace attack ripped through the top order. The English batting lineup crumbled to 134 for 6, staring at a heavy defeat before a recovery act was staged.
The rescue mission was led by all-rounder Ben Stokes and newcomer Will Jacks, whose partnership provided some much-needed stability and prevented a complete capitulation. Their efforts helped England avoid being bowled out on the day, but the team remains in a precarious situation.
Broad's Blunt Assessment: 'Gifting Opportunities'
Analysing the performance for SEN cricket, Broad did not mince his words. "I think there is some frustration for sure," he stated. "It's a very talented group, and in the five days of Ashes cricket so far, they're playing to about maximum 20 per cent of their potential."
Broad dismissed any notion of Australia being a vastly superior team, suggesting the problem lies within the English camp. "I don't think anyone in England looks at this Australian side and goes, 'They are way better than this English team'," he remarked.
He pinpointed the core issue as self-inflicted errors. "I think England are gifting opportunities back to Australia, and if you do that in Australia, you are going to cause yourself a lot of problems," Broad added, highlighting how the visitors have failed to seize key moments and handed the initiative back to the hosts.
The former pacer's comments underscore the growing concern around England's approach in the high-stakes series. With the team failing to convert its potential into performance, the pressure mounts as Australia looks to secure a dominant position in the Ashes.
