The Ashes: Alastair Cook reacts to Stuart Broad’s retirement decision

Sir Alastair Cook says he is ’emotional and surprised’ by Stuart Broad’s decision to retire after the Ashes series.

Announcing the decision, Broad said: ‘Tomorrow – well Monday – will be my last game of cricket.

‘It’s been a wonderful ride, a huge privilege to wear the Nottinghamshire and the England badge as much as I have and I’m loving cricket as much as I ever have.

‘It’s been such a wonderful series to be a part of and I’ve always wanted to finish it on top. This series feels like one of the most enjoyable and entertaining I’ve been a part of.’

Reacting to the announcement, Broad’s former England team-mate Cook said: ‘I’m a bit emotional and a bit surprised.

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‘But if you look at the schedule for Stuart Broad. You have India away, Sri Lanka and West Indies next summer.

‘No offence to those sides but Broad is about big moments. So for him to get through to another big moment is probably another two-and-a-half years.

‘The one player to deliver, alongside Ben Stokes, in the big moments is Stuart Broad. And what a feeling that must be for a player.’

Australia legend Glenn McGrath added: ‘It is a big decision but you come to a time when you know.

‘He loves the big moments, he loves the pressure and that is the sign of a true champion.

‘Going out on your own terms is special as well. He has been incredible for England for a long, long time.’

More to follow…