No Sachin, no Bumrah! Stuart Broad’s historic eleven is causing massive debate

England’s Stuart Broad (AP/PTI) Former England fast bowler Stuart Broad has revealed the strongest Test XI made up entirely of the players he faced during his illustrious international career and the selection has already sparked debate among cricket fans.Broad, who finished his Test career with 604 wickets and is among the most successful bowlers in the format, was asked by Wisden to compile his ultimate team from the opponents he has faced at the highest level over almost two decades.The England great opted for a line-up packed with some of the best cricketers of the modern era, although a few notable omissions immediately stood out.Broad picked former South Africa captain Graeme Smith along with Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara to top the order. While Sangakkara enjoyed tremendous success as a specialist batsman in the latter stages of his career, Broad entrusted him with the wicket duties.Australian icon Ricky Ponting occupied the No. 3 position, with Virat Kohli slotted in at No. 4. Kohli emerged as the only Indian representative in the XI, displacing several other legendary names from the country.One omission that caught the eye was Sachin Tendulkar. Widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of cricket, the former India star did not find a place in Broad’s final selection despite the England pacer bowling against him during his playing days.The middle order represents the two modern giants of the game. Steven Smith was picked at number 5, while South African legend Jacques Kallis was picked at number 6. Kallis also serves as the team’s only true all-rounder, adding immense balance through his contributions with both bat and ball.AB de Villiers was named at No.7 and provided explosive firepower and additional wicket cover when needed.When it came to the bowling attack, Broad seemed to have little trouble picking.Leading the pace battery is former Australian quick Mitchell Johnson, whose hostile spells have troubled batsmen across the globe. He is joined by South African speed great Dale Steyn, one of the most feared fast bowlers of his generation.Australia’s other left-armer Mitchell Starc completed the three-man seam attack, while Sri Lankan wizard Muttiah Muralitharan was selected as the sole specialist for the spin side. Muralitharan remains the leading wicket taker in Test cricket history.Another surprising omission was Jasprit Bumrah. The Indian fast bowler has established himself as one of the premier fast bowlers of the modern era and shares an unforgettable bond with Broad.In 2022, Bumrah smashed Broad for 35 runs in one match at Edgbaston, setting the record for the most expensive match in Test cricket history and helping create one of the memorable moments of an England bowler’s career.Finally, Broad’s final XI reflects the players who have left the biggest impact on him during his time in international cricket, and offers a fascinating insight into the opponents he rates most after years of competing against some of the game’s biggest stars.Stuart Broad’s All-Year Test XI (opponents faced): Graeme Smith, Kumar Sangakkara (wk), Ricky Ponting, Virat Kohli, Steven Smith, Jacques Kallis, AB de Villiers, Mitchell Johnson, Dale Steyn, Muttiah Muralitharan, Mitchell Starc.