Broad replaces this pacer: England declare team for 3rd Test

The England cricket board has announced their team for the third Test against Sri Lanka and it has two changes. Fast bowler Stuart Broad will be replacing legendary pacer James Anderson while Jonny Bairstow comes in the team for injured Sam Curran.

England opt for a strong batting line-up

The visitors have once again decided to field a mighty strong batting line-up which comprises of Rory Burns, Keaton Jennings, skipper Joe Root and Ben Stokes. The presence of Jos Butler and Moeen Ali further strengthens the batting depth while Jonny Bairstow’s inclusion provides added power. Plus Adil Rashid, Ben Foakes and Stuart Broad have all proved their batting capabilities which means England will have a very long bating line-up.

Find someone who looks at you like this soldier looks at @root66! ? pic.twitter.com/bkXH5U2vJC

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) November 21, 2018

A case for three wicket-keepers 

Interestingly, the England’s middle-order features three batsmen who can make it to the team as specialist wicket-keepers. Jos Butler is the team’s de facto wicket-keeper in ODIs while Bairstow dons the gloves in Tests. However, the team management has named Foakes who has been highly impressive in this series so far as the designated wicket-keeper.

Also read: Twitter trolls Indian pacer after being smashed by Maxwell 

It makes sense for Broad to get some cricket: Anderson

Anderson said that he understands the reasoning behind the decision of excluding him with the series already won. He explained that with the winter they have got ahead, it makes sense for Stuart to get some cricket. He noted that Broad has not played for a while and it’s going to be a tough tour of the West Indies.

He added that it is a good opportunity for the left-arm pacer and the team. He also observed that you have to look at the situation as well. He believes it is hard work for seamers here and it’s not like he has been able to have a huge input on the games.

England’s team for the third Test: Joe Root (c), Rory Burns, Keaton Jennings, Jonny Bairstow,  Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, Ben Foakes (wk), Adil Rashid, Jack Leach, Stuart Broad