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The Ashes 2023: Stuart Broad says he will retire with “pure joy and happiness” after fairytale finish

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Stuart Broad says he will leave cricket with “pure joy and happiness” after taking the final two wickets as England drew the Ashes with a 49-run victory.

In a thrilling finale, Broad removed the final two Australia batters as England levelled the series at 2-2.

It was a fitting end for an Ashes legend, who announced on Saturday he will retire after the Test.

“It is special,” said 37-year-old Broad, who ends with 604 Test wickets after a 15-year Test career.

“It is a difficult decision to walk away from the game I love but I wanted my last ball to be in an environment that is so special and playing sport I still love – for my lasting memory to be pure joy and happiness.

“That is how I feel now.”

The finish means Broad ends his career having hit his final ball faced for six and taken a wicket with his last delivery.

Australia were 264-3 chasing 384 before a stunning surge from England with Chris Woakes taking 4-50 and off-spinner Moeen Ali a crucial 3-76.

Moeen came out of retirement to play in the series and was struggling with a groin injury. He confirmed afterwards the Test will be his last.

“To finish with Broady taking last wicket was amazing,” he said.

“It is a great win.

“It was a little daunting [coming out of retirement]. I have never played that well against Australia but Stokesy asked and I thought ‘why not?’.

“I am so glad I came back and said yes. It has been amazing. I am chuffed I can finish with a win against Australia and play a little bit of a helping hand.”

Broad embraced his long-term bowling partner James Anderson after his final wicket
Broad was greeted by his partner Mollie King and his young daughter on the field

More to follow.

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