South Africa rope in Stuart Broad as bowling consultant for WTC final vs Australia
Former England pacer Stuart Broad will join the South African squad as a consultant ahead of their World Test Championship (WTC) Final clash against Australia at Lord's on June 11.This will be Broad's first coaching assignment since retiring from international cricket in 2023. He is set to attend South Africa's training session at Lord's on June 9, offering his expertise as the Proteas prepare to face the reigning champions in the marquee Test.advertisementBroad brings with him a wealth of experience, having taken 604 wickets in 167 Tests - the second-most for England behind James Anderson. Notably, 153 of those wickets came against Australia, the most by any bowler against a single opponent in Test history. His record at Lord's is equally impressive, with 113 wickets in 28 matches at the historic venue.
South Africa have already arrived in the UK and begin their preparations with a four-day warm-up match against Zimbabwe at Arundel Castle Cricket Ground from June 4. Under the leadership of Temba Bavuma, the Proteas are eyeing their first WTC title after topping the points table with eight wins, three losses and a draw in the current cycle.Their campaign began with a 1-1 series draw against India at home, followed by a 2-0 defeat in New Zealand. From there, they built momentum with a 1-0 series win in the West Indies and consecutive 2-0 victories over Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan - the latter sealed with a dramatic two-wicket win at Centurion.advertisementAustralia, who lifted the WTC mace in 2023 after beating India at The Oval, finished second in the standings. They began their campaign with two Ashes wins before England fought back to level the series 2-2. The Aussies then swept Pakistan 3-0 at home, drew 1-1 with the West Indies, and claimed a 2-0 series win in New Zealand. A 2-1 home series victory against India in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy and a final 2-0 sweep of Sri Lanka rounded off their road to the Final.With both sides bringing strong form and experience into the contest, South Africa will hope Broad's insights - especially against familiar foes in Australia - can give them an edge as they chase their maiden WTC crown at the 'Home of Cricket'.
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