Ben Stokes announces retirement from international cricket (Img: IANS)
New Delhi: England captain Ben Stokes has stunned the cricket world by announcing his retirement from international cricket during the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.
The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed that the 35-year-old all-rounder will play his final international match at the end of the current Test. Stokes informed his teammates before the start of play on the fourth day, making the announcement an emotional moment for the England dressing room and fans.
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Stokes began his international career with England’s white-ball side in 2011 before making his Test debut during the 2013 Ashes in Adelaide. Over the years, he became one of England’s most influential cricketers, known for producing match-winning performances under pressure.
His unbeaten 84 in the 2019 World Cup final at Lord’s remains one of the most iconic innings in ODI history. The same year, his unforgettable 135 not out against Australia at Headingley became part of Ashes folklore.
Since taking over as England’s Test captain in 2022, Stokes, along with head coach Brendon McCullum, transformed England’s red-ball approach through the aggressive ‘Bazball’ style.
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Under his leadership, England played fearless cricket, attacked in difficult situations and brought renewed excitement to Test cricket.
ECB chair Richard Thompson praised Stokes as one of England’s greatest cricketers and a defining figure of his generation.
Stokes leaves international cricket not just as a World Cup winner and Ashes hero, but as a captain who changed how England approached the longest format.
