England Test captain Ben Stokes will retire from international cricket after the third Test against New Zealand. Consequently, he will end one of England’s most celebrated modern careers.
Stokes helped England win the 2019 Cricket World Cup with an unbeaten 84 in the final. He also produced one of the greatest Ashes innings in cricket history.
Fans at Trent Bridge gave Stokes a standing ovation after the announcement.
Emotional Farewell at Trent Bridge
Stokes marked the occasion by taking a wicket with his first delivery. Later, he opened England’s innings alongside Ben Duckett. New Zealand players and match officials formed a guard of honour. Meanwhile, Stokes entertained the crowd with two early sixes.
However, he scored 30 before getting out. The spectators responded with another standing ovation as he left the field. The 122nd Test of his career could become his international farewell. However, Stokes will continue playing county cricket for Durham.
Captain Reflects on Emotional Journey
Stokes said leading England has been the greatest honour of his career. However, he admitted the captaincy also took an emotional toll. He explained that the role brought pressure few people fully understood. Nevertheless, he said he cherished every moment of his four-and-a-half-year tenure.
Before play, Stokes delivered an emotional message to his teammates. He urged them to give everything during the final two days.
Additionally, he asked everyone to delay emotional tributes until the match ended. Stokes said effort mattered more than the final result.
