Ben Stokes ‘Done’ With International Cricket After England’s Series Loss to New Zealand
Ben Stokes, the England captain, has dismissed suggestions that he might reverse his international retirement for next year’s Ashes series, stating he is “done.” His international career concluded on Monday following England’s defeat by New Zealand in the third Test, which confirmed a 2-1 series loss.
When asked about a potential return to play against Australia next summer, Stokes expressed contentment with his decision. He told BBC Test Match Special that it was not a choice made lightly and had taken considerable time. He reiterated his satisfaction with the decision, stating, “I am very happy.” Asked again for confirmation, he simply replied, “Sure.”
Reflecting on the Decision
Stokes, who is 35, announced his retirement on Sunday. Head coach Brendon McCullum attempted to persuade him to continue when informed of his plans. However, Stokes’s international career, spanning 15 years, 122 Tests, 114 one-day internationals, and 43 T20s, has now concluded.
Following England’s 160-run defeat, Stokes maintained his composure, exchanging embraces with opposition players and briefly waving to the crowd after his post-match interviews. He had previously stated on Sunday that retirement was the “best thing” for him.
On Monday, Stokes further acknowledged that recent events, including being left out of the second Test against the Black Caps due to breaking the team’s midnight curfew, had influenced his decision. He mentioned a “series of unfortunate events” and suggested that these incidents might have contributed to his choice, though he emphasized that the overriding factor was the toll taken by his role over the past six to twelve months.
He noted that while his role as captain was an honour and exciting, it also had negative aspects. Stokes had previously reversed a white-ball retirement to participate in the 2023 World Cup.
Series Outcome and Team Impact
The series defeat to the Black Caps marks England’s first home series loss in a three-Test series or more since 2012.
Despite the recent results, Stokes, who has been England’s Test captain since 2022, is remembered for several iconic moments. These include his match-winning unbeaten century against Australia at Headingley in 2019 and his performance in helping England win the 50-over World Cup final at Lord’s earlier that same year.
He expressed that he would miss “everything to do with this,” attributing it partly to getting older. He also noted that there were some aspects he would be glad not to have to do anymore.
Jofra Archer was named England’s player of the series, securing 11 wickets despite missing the first Test. Archer expressed his disappointment regarding Stokes’s departure, stating it would be a significant loss and that he did not look forward to imagining the changing room without him.
New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell was awarded player of the match for his century. Rachin Ravindra praised New Zealand’s series victory, highlighting the team’s effort and specific performances from players like Foulkesy and Tom Blundell.
New Zealand has achieved two major away series wins in the last two years, including this victory in England.
McCullum’s Future and Team Direction
McCullum’s position as head coach is now under scrutiny. Similar to his stance after the Ashes, the New Zealander has indicated his desire to remain in the role. He affirmed his unwavering commitment to English cricket and his belief in the team’s direction.
McCullum stated that a lack of wins does not invalidate their approach. He expressed excitement about the team’s continued efforts to improve, evolve, and progress towards becoming a better cricket team.
Regarding Stokes’s retirement, McCullum noted that Stokes had made up his mind, and it became evident he was keen to step away. He described the situation as sad, reflecting on their close working relationship over four years and the experiences they shared. McCullum called Stokes an inspiration and a good friend, wishing him well for the future.
The final day of the third Test saw New Zealand secure three wickets in the morning session. Smith and Atkinson managed to add over 60 runs for England, but the session belonged to New Zealand after Emilio Gay edged behind and Joe Root was run out by Henry Nicholls. Ben Sears was bowling with a broken index finger on his bowling hand during the match.
The runs required for England to win dipped below 200 during the match.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
Reuben Castle is the Sports News Writer at News GB, covering rugby union, golf and boxing with six years of reporting experience. He moved from print into digital sport news. He holds a degree in Journalism from Coventry University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Coventry, he follows the Open Championship and amateur boxing. “Accuracy first; the analysis can follow.”
