Nottingham: England men’s Test captain Ben Stokes has announced his retirement from international cricket, confirming he will bring the curtain on his illustrious career after the third Rodsey Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.
The third Test will mark the end of an international career that began in 2011 with England’s white-ball team before making his Test debut during the 2013 Ashes series in Adelaide.
Stokes has been leading the Test team since April 2022 and has established himself as one of England’s most influential captains. Widely regarded as one of England’s greatest all-rounders, Stokes has played a key role in some of the country’s most memorable victories.
His unbeaten 84 in the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup final against New Zealand helped force a super over as England lifted their maiden World Cup title.
A few weeks later, he scored an unbeaten 135 at Headingley to guide England to a remarkable one-wicket victory over Australia in the third Ashes Test. His highest Test score is 258 against South Africa in Cape Town in 2016.
Responding to the announcement, England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chairman Richard Thompson paid tribute to Stokes’ extraordinary contribution to English cricket.
“Ben Stokes leaves the international game as one of England’s greatest cricketers and one of the defining figures of his generation. His performances under pressure, relentless competitiveness and ability to create the extraordinary have given millions of fans memories that will last forever,” Thompson said.
“Whether inspiring success at the biggest moments, including England’s World Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2022, or leading the Test team with courage and conviction, Ben has been a talismanic figure in English cricket.
“Beyond his achievements on the field, he has inspired countless youngsters to play with confidence and conviction. We miss a batsman, a bowler, a captain and a true leader. On behalf of the ECB, I thank Ben for all he has contributed to English cricket and wish him and his family the best in the future.”
ECB CEO Richard Gold praised Stokes’ lasting impact on the sport.
“Ben Stokes has made an immeasurable contribution to England cricket, not only through his exceptional talent as one of the world’s greatest all-rounders, but also through the commitment, resilience and passion he has shown throughout his international career,” Gould said.
“His influence goes beyond statistics. He has inspired teammates, supporters and aspiring cricketers around the world through his leadership and unwavering desire to win. We are extremely grateful for his service to England and wish him a great international career. His legacy will be celebrated for generations.”
Born in Christchurch, New Zealand and raised in Cumbria, Stokes overcame several injuries during his career to win back-to-back matches and cement his place among England’s all-time cricketing greats.