Stuart Broad hailed an "amazing feeling" after scoring his maiden first-class century in the fourth test with Pakistan at Lord's.
England paceman will cherish century at Lord's
Stuart Broad hailed an "amazing feeling" after scoring his maiden first-class century in the fourth Test with Pakistan at Lord's.
The England bowler joined Jonathan Trott at the crease with his side reeling on 102-7 after Mohammad Amir had ripped through the middle order in stunning style.
But the pair put on an unbeaten eighth-wicket stand of 244 as the hosts climbed out of deep trouble and into a strong position by the close of play on day two.
The 24-year-old, who will resume on 125 on Saturday morning, says his initial aim was to avoid being dismissed cheaply but eventually began to realise his innings was turning into something special.
"It's an amazing feeling, the atmosphere was fantastic," Broad told
Sky Sports.
Clear plan
"We said when I joined Trotty out there it was just important to have a clear plan of making five at a time, get to 105, 110 and just build from there. That took the emphasis off what the pitch was doing.
"He was unfazed, like he has been throughout his Test career. We knew we didn't want to give away a cheap wicket at the end and we're happy to face the seamers tomorrow with a 30-over-old ball.
"The overhead (conditions) play a big part here, but we've seen the wicket get flatter and flatter as Test matches go on so it's important to put a big score on the board first.
"At 100-7 it wasn't looking too likely but it's important Trotty and I build on that and get to around 400."
Broad's father Chris is a former England opener but the specialist batsman never managed to score a century for his country at the home of cricket.
Memory
The younger Broad said: "It's a feeling I'll remember for the rest of my life, and it's nice to be the first Broad up on that honours board."
"I always dreamt of an extra-cover drive for my hundred at Lord's. But luckily, it was on my legs - and I'll take anything," he added of the shot that took him to three figures.
"You always dream of Test match centuries, and if I was to pick any ground in the world it would be Lord's.
"It is one of those days that will live long in my memory."
Amir finished the day satisfied with his Test best figures of 6-73 but the 18-year-old was disappointed that Pakistan passed up a golden chance to skittle England for a low total and take the upper hand in the contest.
"It was special - the first time I've got six wickets and best of figures of my career. I am happy but I am a little bit sad. They are in a good position," he said.
"We were in a good position, but now we are on the back foot."
