England’s Test captain Ben Stokes has declared his retirement from international cricket following the current Test match against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed the news on Sunday, marking the conclusion of a distinguished career that featured the 2019 World Cup victory and his legendary Ashes innings at Headingley the same year.
The announcement was made during play at Trent Bridge, where the crowd responded with a standing ovation. In a memorable response, Stokes took a wicket with his very first delivery after the retirement news was revealed.
At 35 years old, Stokes made his international debut in 2011 and has served as England’s Test captain since 2022. Renowned as a dynamic all-rounder, he was instrumental in England’s first-ever 50-over World Cup win in 2019, scoring an unbeaten 84 in the final.
Notably, his unbeaten 135 at Headingley during the Ashes series that summer helped England secure a dramatic one-wicket victory over Australia, a match that remains one of the most iconic in Test cricket history, especially after England were bowled out for just 67 in their first innings.
In a significant development, ECB chair Richard Thompson praised Stokes as one of England’s greatest cricketers. He highlighted Stokes’ remarkable ability to perform under pressure and deliver extraordinary moments when they mattered most, leaving fans with unforgettable memories that will endure for generations.
