England white-ball skipper Stokes to retire from international cricket

LONDON: England Test captain Ben Stokes will retire from international cricket after the ongoing Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, the England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed on Sunday, marking the end of a remarkable career highlighted by the 2019 World Cup triumph and his iconic Ashes innings at Headingley the same year.

The announcement, made during play at Trent Bridge, was met with a standing ovation from the crowd. Stokes responded in trademark fashion, taking a wicket with his very first ball after the news broke.

The 35-year-old made his international debut in 2011 and has led England’s Test side since 2022.

Widely regarded as a talismanic all-rounder, Stokes played a pivotal role in England’s maiden 50-over World Cup victory in 2019, producing an unbeaten 84 in the final.

His unbeaten 135 at Headingley in the Ashes that summer—guiding England to a dramatic one-wicket win over Australia after being bowled out for 67 in the first innings—remains one of the most celebrated innings in Test history.

ECB chair Richard Thompson said Stokes would be remembered as one of England’s greatest cricketers, praising his ability to thrive under pressure and deliver “the extraordinary when it matters most,” leaving fans with memories that will last for generations.