Ben Stokes to retire from international cricket after third New Zealand Test

Ben Stokes, one of England's most transformative cricketers, has announced his retirement from international cricket. The 35-year-old all-rounder will play his final match for England in the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, bringing a close to a 15-year career marked by extraordinary highs and unforgettable moments.

The decision comes weeks after Stokes was involved in a nightclub incident alongside teammate Gus Atkinson, but the ECB confirmed that the retirement was a personal choice. ECB chair Richard Thompson paid tribute to Stokes, calling him 'one of England's greatest ever cricketers' and praising his ability to produce match-winning performances under pressure.

A remarkable career

Stokes retires as a World Cup winner in both 50-over and T20 formats. He was instrumental in England's 2019 ODI World Cup triumph, scoring an unbeaten 84 in the final, and captained the side to T20 World Cup glory in 2022. His Test career includes a legendary 135 not out in the 2019 Ashes at Headingley, one of the greatest innings in the sport's history.

Appointed England Test captain in 2022, Stokes, alongside coach Brendon McCullum, pioneered the aggressive 'Bazball' approach. Under his leadership, England won 10 of their first 12 Tests, though results have been mixed since. Last year, he became the first England captain to score a century and take five wickets in the same Test match.

• Led England to T20 World Cup title in 2022, scoring a half-century in the final
• Scored 7,228 runs in 121 Tests, placing him 12th on England's all-time list
• First England captain to take five wickets and hit a century in the same Test
• Played a key role in England's 2019 ODI World Cup win with a match-winning performance in the final
• Made his ODI debut in 2011 and Test debut in 2013, playing 121 Tests and over 100 ODIs

Stokes' retirement ends a chapter in English cricket that redefined the team's approach and inspired a generation. While his absence will be deeply felt, his legacy as a talismanic figure who delivered when it mattered most is secure. He will now focus on franchise cricket and family life.