Stuart Broad slammed England’s collapse after New Zealand demolished the side by 253 runs at The Oval. The loss exposed how much the team relies on captain Ben Stokes, who was withdrawn from the second Test for breaking a midnight curfew with Gus Atkinson last night.

A squad stripped of three debutants, Stokes, Atkinson, and injured pacer Ollie Robinson, also missed wicket‑keeper Jamie Smith on paternity leave. Matt Henry’s 11‑wicket haul cemented the win, while England’s bowlers struggled against a raw pace attack in the second innings of the match.

Broad cautioned that the defeat will hurt Stokes, saying the captain will feel the sting in Durham where he recuperates. He added England needs Stokes’ leadership and batting, urging him to return to Trent Bridge as a bowler ahead of the decisive third Test.

The Oval loss snaps England’s home‑Test series win streak that began in 2021 and threatens a 2‑1 series deficit at home. Broad stresses the Trent Bridge Test is vital; a 2‑1 loss would raise questions over the team’s direction for selectors and fans alike.