Stuart Broad has become an unexpected social media sensation after his stunned reaction to Joe Root’s dismissal during the two-day Test against Australia went viral. Once a central figure in the Ashes rivalry and a consistent match-winner for England, Broad now finds himself in the spotlight for a very different reason.
Cameras captured the moment Mitchell Starc removed Root. Moments later, the broadcast cut to the commentary box, where Broad sat with his hands pressed over his closed eyes, breathing deeply as he processed the collapse unfolding below. His expression summarised the frustration of England fans worldwide.
Stuart Broad accurately representing all England fans this morning 😅
Credit: 7Cricket pic.twitter.com/aZspYriEdf
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) November 22, 2025Matthew Hayden, who was seated beside him, seized the moment with a playful jab. He joked that Broad should stay in the commentary box because “you are taking wickets galore,” turning the moment into instant comedy for viewers.
Fans quickly shared the clip across social platforms, calling it one of the most memorable reactions of the series. Many users commented that Broad expressed exactly what they felt in that moment. Others noted that the current England side lacks the sense of belief Broad once brought to the pitch.
"Just close my eyes and pray it wasn't actually happening" 🤣
Stuart Broad explains his viral reaction during England's first Ashes Test defeat 🎙️ pic.twitter.com/fZKvkJGrrG
— Sky Sports Cricket (@SkyCricket) November 23, 2025Stuart Broad later explained his reaction while appearing on SEN’s review show, Day After, from Perth Stadium. He said he simply needed a moment to process what he saw. According to Broad, the entire crowd erupted when Root was dismissed, and he felt the same mixture of disbelief and disappointment. Sitting next to Hayden only heightened the moment’s intensity. Broad added that he closed his eyes for a brief pause, hoping that what he had witnessed was not real.
The viral reaction highlighted how deeply Broad remains connected to England’s cricketing fortunes, even in retirement.
