The Ashes may still be five months away, but former England pacer Stuart Broad has already begun analyzing Australia’s current Test squad. The retired fast bowler, who finished his career with 604 Test wickets, has raised concerns about Australia’s top-order batting, calling it the “most muddled” top three he has ever seen.
Australia has already retained the Frank Worrell Trophy in the ongoing three-Test series against the West Indies, but their batting performances have come under scrutiny. In both Tests so far, the West Indies fast bowlers have challenged Australia’s top order, especially with the new ball.
“Most Muddled Top Three in My Lifetime” – Broad
Having bowled to legendary Australian batters in 40 Ashes Tests—players like Matthew Hayden, Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting, David Warner, Shane Watson, and Steve Smith—Broad didn’t hesitate to compare those line-ups with the current setup.
“I’m not out of place in thinking it’s the most muddled top three in my lifetime. I’ve grown up with Hayden, Langer and Ponting,” Broad said on The Grade Cricketer podcast.
He further criticised the current batting positions of some players: “But I think Usman is struggling. Cameron Green at three… he’s a six, isn’t he? Or a five. Anyone who used to take off stump guard would really excite me as an opening bowler because they play at fifth stump and don’t know where their off stump is.”
Marnus Labuschagne, who was dropped after the World Test Championship final, might be on the verge of a comeback. Broad acknowledged his potential: “Ultimately with Labuschagne, I know he’s struggled for a couple of years, but he’s a good player. So I’d be surprised if he doesn’t come back into the frame at some stage.”
Broad also weighed in on the future of Sam Konstas, the young top-order batter who debuted recently: “I think he (Konstas) is there to stay.”
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