Hodder wins 'one of a kind' cricketer Broad’s autobiography in 11-way auction

Hodder & Stoughton has triumphed in an 11-publisher auction for the autobiography of England cricketing legend Stuart Broad, who announced his retirement from international cricket last week following a thrilling Ashes series with Australia.

Huw Armstrong, editorial director, acquired UK and Commonwealth rights from David Luxton at David Luxton Associates on behalf of Neil Fairbrother at Phoenix. Hodder & Stoughton will publish Stuart Broad: The Autobiography in hardback, trade paperback, audiobook (read by Broad) and e-book on 9th November 2023.

The publisher says: “Stuart Broad, widely considered to be one of England’s greatest ever players, is part of an elite group of bowlers who have taken over 600 Test match wickets – becoming only the second English player, and fifth ever, to achieve that feat.

"During his remarkable 17-year career, he has been part of one of the most exciting eras in English cricket, winning four Ashes series and giving fans some of the best bowling spells in recent memory, including his magical spell of eight for 15 at Trent Bridge in 2015.

“He has played alongside some of England’s greatest players, including Ben Stokes, Alastair Cook, Joe Root, Andrew Flintoff and many more. His bond with long-term bowling partner, Jimmy Anderson, will go down in history as one of the great partnerships in world cricket. Known for his colourful personality both on and off the field, he has been responsible for some of the most exciting moments of this summer’s Ashes series, including hitting a six with his last shot as a batsman and his now infamous bail-swapping. Announcing his retirement from cricket during the last match, Stuart took the final wicket to cap off a sensational career.

“Now, for the first time, in his own words, Stuart will tell his story. Looking back at the moments that have defined his career, he will offer a unique glimpse into the many highs – and lows – examining his triumphs, records, and his life away from the sport. The resilience that he has shown throughout his career, his personal sacrifices and the mindset required to bounce back from some of the game’s toughest moments, have given him a unique take on the sport and promise to inspire readers.”

Broad said: “This has been one of the most fun and entertaining summers of my career, playing for an England team that has taken Test cricket to places it has never been before. It therefore feels like the perfect time to share my experiences of not only the 2023 Ashes but a full 17-year international career. I am extremely grateful to Hodder for allowing me to chart for the first time a journey. I will tell my story afresh, from closing the playing chapter of my life in cricket, having left the field for the final time, content with all that I have achieved and still deeply in love with a sport that I first fell for as a young boy.”

Armstrong commented: “The cricket this summer is a real reminder as to why Stuart Broad is one of a kind. This summer’s Ashes series has had everything – passion, narrative, tension, drama. Stuart, as he always has been, was central to that. He’s a fighter, and a competitor, and this book showcases exactly what makes him so special.”