Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad has described the upcoming Australian Ashes squad as their “worst since 2010,” ahead of the five-Test series in Australia starting 21 November in Perth.

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Broad Responds to David Warner

The comments come after ex-Australian batter David Warner predicted a 4-0 series win for the hosts. Broad, who retired in 2023 after the Ashes series in England, believes Australia are under pressure despite being favourites, citing:

• Fitness doubts over captain Pat Cummins, sidelined since July with a lumbar bone stress injury.
• A bowling attack reliant on veterans – Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland – with limited depth behind them.
• Batting instability compared to previous squads.

Broad said:

“You wouldn’t be outlandish in thinking – it’s probably the worst Australian team since 2010 when England last won, and it’s the best English team since 2010. So those things match up to the fact it’s going to be a brilliant Ashes series.”

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England’s Opportunity

England, led by Ben Stokes, have a “golden opportunity” to capitalize on Australia’s issues, according to Broad. He draws a parallel to the 2010-11 Ashes, when England won in Australia under similar circumstances.

However, journalist Stephan Shemilt notes that Broad’s comments could backfire if England fail to perform, as expectations will be high. Broad’s analysis suggests:

• Australia must underperform for England to win.
• England need to play exceptionally well to take advantage.

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Series Context

• First Test: 21 November, Perth
• Ashes schedule: 5 Tests across 7 weeks
• Key injury concern: Pat Cummins’ potential absence
• Australia’s key players: Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, Scott Boland
• England’s challenge: Maintain performance under pressure

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Key Takeaways

• Broad predicts Australia’s weakest Ashes side since 2010.
• England could capitalize on Australia’s batting concerns and Cummins’ injury.
• The first Test is crucial for setting the tone of the series.
• Expect ongoing war of words between former and current players, with Broad and Warner continuing their rivalry.