England vs India fourth Test: Stuart Broad retires hurt after being hit in the face by Varun Aaron bouncer

Broad was hit on the nose after two consecutive sixes and blood was seen to be pouring from a cut

Stuart Broad is hit in the face by a bouncer from Varon Aaron (Getty Images)

England's Stuart Broad retired hurt after being struck on the nose by a bouncer in the fourth Investec Test against India at Emirates Old Trafford.

The rising delivery from paceman Varun Aaron went straight through the grille of Broad's helmet and hit him on the bridge of the nose, immediately drawing blood.

Broad called for attention straight away but was able to stand and receive treatment before being led off the field.

The incident occurred in the first over of the afternoon session of the third day of the match.

England had resumed on 325 for eight - a lead of 173 - and Broad had immediately set about accelerating progress by hooking Aaron for successive sixes.

Watch the video of Broad being hit below

It appeared that India had planned to attack England's batsmen with short balls in an attempt to end the innings and, despite conceding the two maximums, Aaron persisted with the tactic. He struck Broad with his next delivery.

Stuart Broad is hit in the face by a Varun Aaron bouncer (Getty Images)

Joe Root and Moeen Ali have also been troubled by the same bowler during the match.

Broad was led back to the dressing room looking groggy and it was uncertain whether he would be fit to take the new ball for India's second innings.

PA