<p>Former England captain Ben Stokes slammed claims of England Cricket’s drinking problem that made headlines for all the wrong reasons during the forgettable Ashes tour in Australia. While Stokes rejected all those talks, saying ‘that’s such an extreme thing to put on a team’, he argued that cricket’s affiliation with alcohol is old and has stayed. He made such a statement during a podcast with fellow England greats Jos Buttler and Stuart Broad, opening up on his stance on the drinking issue within England’s dressing room.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>England’s drinking problem came into the limelight just after they conceded the away Ashes early this year, with reports of several players getting involved in altercations in Australia amid a boozing spree on a Noosa holiday.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read| </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ben-stokes-rules-out-ashes-return-eyes-england-coaching-role-1785841783389"><strong>Ashes return ‘out of question’, but Stokes seeks future England coaching role</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, after Broad directly asked Stokes about his opinion on the issue, he said, "No, I mean, that's such an extreme thing to put on a team. I think cricket has just a drinking culture and it hasn't changed. We are in 2026 now, where the game has gone more professional over the years. One thing that has just stayed within cricket is its relationship with alcohol, from club cricket all the way up.”<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Stokes said despite cricket shaping into its most professional form today, alcohol is embedded within it.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"It's been embedded within the sport. The relationship between alcohol and cricket is something that hasn't moved on as the game has become more professional. There's been more science, medicine and nutrition information. So people think England cricket has a culture with alcohol, but I would say no, cricket has a culture associated with alcohol," Stokes, who announced his shock international retirement in June this year, added.</p><h2>Controversy that ended Stokes' career</h2><p>Stokes-led England beat New Zealand in their Test series opener at Lord’s by 115 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Hours after the game got over, Stokes and his England teammate Gus Atkinson were out partying in a London nightclub, where the two got involved in an altercation, leading to an ECB security guard suffering injuries.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The matter escalated soon after, and the ECB and Cricket Regulator launched separate probes into the matter, while suspending the two indefinitely. Stokes and Atkinson were then asked to feature for their respective counties, while Joe Root led England in the second Test, which they lost.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>While the investigation involving the two concluded with them being given a clean chit and spared a written warning, both were recalled to the side for the third and decisive Test at Trent Bridge. Midway through day four of the Test, the ECB revealed Stokes' decision to step aside from cricket, bringing the curtains down on a decorated career.</p>

Ben Stokes dismisses claims of an England cricket drinking problem, arguing that alcohol culture is embedded across the entire sport from club level to the top.

Former England captain Ben Stokes slammed claims of England Cricket’s drinking problem that made headlines for all the wrong reasons during the forgettable Ashes tour in Australia. While Stokes rejected all those talks, saying ‘that’s such an extreme thing to put on a team’, he argued that cricket’s affiliation with alcohol is old and has stayed. He made such a statement during a podcast with fellow England greats Jos Buttler and Stuart Broad, opening up on his stance on the drinking issue within England’s dressing room. England’s drinking problem came into the limelight just after they conceded the away Ashes early this year, with reports of several players getting involved in altercations in Australia amid a boozing spree on a Noosa holiday. Also read| Ashes return ‘out of question’, but Stokes seeks future England coaching role Meanwhile, after Broad directly asked Stokes about his opinion on the issue, he said, "No, I mean, that's such an extreme thing to put on a team. I think cricket has just a drinking culture and it hasn't changed. We are in 2026 now, where the game has gone more professional over the years. One thing that has just stayed within cricket is its relationship with alcohol, from club cricket all the way up.” Stokes said despite cricket shaping into its most professional form today, alcohol is embedded within it. "It's been embedded within the sport. The relationship between alcohol and cricket is something that hasn't moved on as the game has become more professional. There's been more science, medicine and nutrition information. So people think England cricket has a culture with alcohol, but I would say no, cricket has a culture associated with alcohol," Stokes, who announced his shock international retirement in June this year, added. Controversy that ended Stokes' career Stokes-led England beat New Zealand in their Test series opener at Lord’s by 115 runs, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Hours after the game got over, Stokes and his England teammate Gus Atkinson were out partying in a London nightclub, where the two got involved in an altercation, leading to an ECB security guard suffering injuries. The matter escalated soon after, and the ECB and Cricket Regulator launched separate probes into the matter, while suspending the two indefinitely. Stokes and Atkinson were then asked to feature for their respective counties, while Joe Root led England in the second Test, which they lost. While the investigation involving the two concluded with them being given a clean chit and spared a written warning, both were recalled to the side for the third and decisive Test at Trent Bridge. Midway through day four of the Test, the ECB revealed Stokes' decision to step aside from cricket, bringing the curtains down on a decorated career.

<p>Ben Stokes dismisses claims of an England cricket drinking problem, arguing that alcohol culture is embedded across the entire sport from club level to the top.</p>

'Cricket's relationship with alcohol has stayed': Stokes rejects 'England Cricket drinking problem' claims

<p>The ICC has asked the ECB to explain the timing of releasing Ben Stokes’ retirement video midway through the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, which included a speech he gave to his teammates ahead of the fourth day’s play inside the dressing room. Just before tea on the penultimate day of the deciding Test in Nottingham, the ECB released video footage of Stokes announcing his retirement on the screens at the ground and on their social media handles. That, however, appeared to be a breach of an ICC protocol, for which the apex body has written to the ECB, seeking a formal reply.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Per a BBC report, the ICC wrote to the ECB on the eve of the Women’s T20 World Cup Final at Lord’s last Sunday (Jul 5), where ECB chair Richard Thompson met ICC chairman Jay Shah.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read| </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ishan-kishan-abhishek-sharma-top-t20i-rankings-for-batters-india-nightmare-uk-tour-1783543063328"><strong>Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma top T20I charts amid India's nightmare UK tour</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Concerning the video release, the ICC alleges that publishing the footage before the conclusion of the Test match is a breach of its minimum standards governing Players’ and Match Officials’ Areas (PMOA) at international matches. The ICC’s letter also cites Article 2.2.11 of the PMOA regulations, which requires national cricket boards to “ensure that there are no fixed or temporary video cameras or other recording equipment set up within any dressing room used by the teams for the purposes of broadcasting video or audio footage.”</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">One of England&#39;s all-time greatest captains, Ben Stokes, has decided to retire from international cricket at the end of this Test match.<br><br>Ben, you have been the most inspirational captain, leader and legend this team could have ever hoped for. <br><br>We love you so much and wish you… <a href="https://t.co/U5grq0F0kj">pic.twitter.com/U5grq0F0kj</a></p>&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://x.com/englandcricket/status/2071238453598035972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>The report also added that the governing body had earlier informed all members not to release any footage captured inside the PMOA, including any audio or video, before the end of a match; the ICC, however, introduced these stringent guidelines to strengthen the sport’s anti-corruption framework by safeguarding dressing rooms and other restricted areas during international matches.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking on his decision to retire after stumps on the fourth day, Stokes said the timing of the announcement had been coordinated between his management team and the ECB.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“I just said, ‘You guys work with Michael Lumb and Neil Fairbrother, who work with me, and you guys just come up with a plan,'” Stokes said.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Ironically, Stokes was in the middle of his spell when the ECB decided to release his footage on the big screens, with the English all-rounder quickly picking up a wicket soon after to the loudest cheer from the crowd.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Neither the ICC nor the ECB has publicly commented on this matter.</p>

The ICC has demanded a formal explanation from the ECB over a potential protocol breach regarding the mid-Test release of Ben Stokes' retirement video.

The ICC has asked the ECB to explain the timing of releasing Ben Stokes’ retirement video midway through the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, which included a speech he gave to his teammates ahead of the fourth day’s play inside the dressing room. Just before tea on the penultimate day of the deciding Test in Nottingham, the ECB released video footage of Stokes announcing his retirement on the screens at the ground and on their social media handles. That, however, appeared to be a breach of an ICC protocol, for which the apex body has written to the ECB, seeking a formal reply. Per a BBC report, the ICC wrote to the ECB on the eve of the Women’s T20 World Cup Final at Lord’s last Sunday (Jul 5), where ECB chair Richard Thompson met ICC chairman Jay Shah. Also read| Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma top T20I charts amid India's nightmare UK tour Concerning the video release, the ICC alleges that publishing the footage before the conclusion of the Test match is a breach of its minimum standards governing Players’ and Match Officials’ Areas (PMOA) at international matches. The ICC’s letter also cites Article 2.2.11 of the PMOA regulations, which requires national cricket boards to “ensure that there are no fixed or temporary video cameras or other recording equipment set up within any dressing room used by the teams for the purposes of broadcasting video or audio footage.”

<p>The ICC has demanded a formal explanation from the ECB over a potential protocol breach regarding the mid-Test release of Ben Stokes' retirement video.</p>

ICC questions ECB over protocol breach by timing of Ben Stokes' retirement video release

<p>Departing England captain Ben Stokes has handpicked his successor to lead the Test side, and he is none other than Harry Brook. Despite England naming Joe Root as the stand-in captain for the second Test when Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson were out of the squad and in the middle of independent probes over breaching the ECB’s midnight curfew, Stokes has lent 100 per cent support to Brook to lead this side from here on.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Already leading England’s white-ball teams, Brook was overlooked on disciplinary grounds for his involvement in a similar instance at a Wellington nightclub late last year.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read| </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/proud-of-what-i-did-ben-stokes-reflects-on-decorated-england-career-after-shock-retirement-eng-vs-nz-3rd-test-trent-bridge-1782745441294"><strong>‘Proud of what I did’: Ben Stokes reflects on decorated England career after shock retirement</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>However, per the latest report, the ECB is unwilling to burden Brook with captaincy in all three formats. But if he is chosen to succeed Stokes in the red-ball format, he must relinquish captaincy of either the T20Is or the ODIs, with Jacob Bethell and Sam Curran leading the race to replace him.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"There's a reason why he was asked to be vice-captain of this team," Stokes said of Brook. "I know that with all the controversy over the last couple of weeks, there were some decisions that were made [Root leading the team], but those were decisions that I wasn't part of making.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"You're asked to be vice-captain of the team for a certain reason. I was vice captain under Joe for a long time, and it's a natural progression. If the captain's not there or unavailable, then he had to do that. So, there's absolutely no reason why Harry shouldn't [do it],” he continued.</p><h3>Stokes praises Brook amid captaincy transition</h3><p>Despite Michael Vaughan’s blunt take on Brook’s dismissal in England’s second innings, which led to their collapse and eventually the loss, Stokes praised the Yorkshire batter for his ability to do wonders.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"He's someone who's obviously an incredible player, one of the more senior players in this group, but we all know he's a phenomenally talented individual when it comes to his skills as a batter. And if you love a bit more responsibility on the shoulders with this team, we don't know if that's going to show any more improvement in the skills that he's already got.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Only time will tell, but you don't ask someone to be vice-captain if you don't think that they've got the skills and the ability to be able to captain the team when they need to. So, if I was to be asked who I think should do it, I'm throwing my 100% support behind Harry Brook,” Stokes added.</p><h3>Stokes departs!</h3><p>Meanwhile, Stokes called time on his 15-year international career midway through the third and final Test against New Zealand, which England lost by 160 runs and conceded the series 1-2. Late on day four, ECB confirmed Stokes’ decision to relinquish Test captaincy and retire from cricket for England.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Emotional scenes, send-offs, and also guards of honour followed, as Stokes walked out to bat as an opener in his final Test innings, scoring 30 before finding a fielder at mid-wicket.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>On the other hand, Brook’s next assignment is a five-match T20I series against India, followed by three ODIs.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>England’s next Test match is against Pakistan, starting August 19 in Nottingham.&nbsp;</p>

Ben Stokes has handpicked his England Test successor! Discover why the departing captain is backing Harry Brook despite recent curfew controversies. Read here.

Departing England captain Ben Stokes has handpicked his successor to lead the Test side, and he is none other than Harry Brook. Despite England naming Joe Root as the stand-in captain for the second Test when Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson were out of the squad and in the middle of independent probes over breaching the ECB’s midnight curfew, Stokes has lent 100 per cent support to Brook to lead this side from here on. Already leading England’s white-ball teams, Brook was overlooked on disciplinary grounds for his involvement in a similar instance at a Wellington nightclub late last year. Also read| ‘Proud of what I did’: Ben Stokes reflects on decorated England career after shock retirement However, per the latest report, the ECB is unwilling to burden Brook with captaincy in all three formats. But if he is chosen to succeed Stokes in the red-ball format, he must relinquish captaincy of either the T20Is or the ODIs, with Jacob Bethell and Sam Curran leading the race to replace him. "There's a reason why he was asked to be vice-captain of this team," Stokes said of Brook. "I know that with all the controversy over the last couple of weeks, there were some decisions that were made [Root leading the team], but those were decisions that I wasn't part of making. "You're asked to be vice-captain of the team for a certain reason. I was vice captain under Joe for a long time, and it's a natural progression. If the captain's not there or unavailable, then he had to do that. So, there's absolutely no reason why Harry shouldn't [do it],” he continued. Stokes praises Brook amid captaincy transition Despite Michael Vaughan’s blunt take on Brook’s dismissal in England’s second innings, which led to their collapse and eventually the loss, Stokes praised the Yorkshire batter for his ability to do wonders. "He's someone who's obviously an incredible player, one of the more senior players in this group, but we all know he's a phenomenally talented individual when it comes to his skills as a batter. And if you love a bit more responsibility on the shoulders with this team, we don't know if that's going to show any more improvement in the skills that he's already got. "Only time will tell, but you don't ask someone to be vice-captain if you don't think that they've got the skills and the ability to be able to captain the team when they need to. So, if I was to be asked who I think should do it, I'm throwing my 100% support behind Harry Brook,” Stokes added. Stokes departs! Meanwhile, Stokes called time on his 15-year international career midway through the third and final Test against New Zealand, which England lost by 160 runs and conceded the series 1-2. Late on day four, ECB confirmed Stokes’ decision to relinquish Test captaincy and retire from cricket for England. Emotional scenes, send-offs, and also guards of honour followed, as Stokes walked out to bat as an opener in his final Test innings, scoring 30 before finding a fielder at mid-wicket. On the other hand, Brook’s next assignment is a five-match T20I series against India, followed by three ODIs. England’s next Test match is against Pakistan, starting August 19 in Nottingham.

<p>Ben Stokes has handpicked his England Test successor! Discover why the departing captain is backing Harry Brook despite recent curfew controversies. Read here.</p>

Who will lead England in Tests after Ben Stokes? Departing captain handpicks his successor

<p>England Test captain Ben Stokes has retired from international cricket and no longer holds the top spot in the dressing room. Yet, he feels plenty of emotions and is proud of what he did as an English cricketer in his decorated 15-year-career. Moments after New Zealand crushed England in the third and decisive Test at Trent Bridge (by 160 runs) to win the series (2-1), Stokes gave his final interview in the Test jersey, a format in which his influence peaked and he made countless memories.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"It's been a nice couple of days in terms of all that. Would have been great to have ended differently with a result; incredibly hard-fought game by both teams. Credit to New Zealand and the way they operate, especially Daryl (Mitchell) and Rachin (Ravindra). It was always going to be difficult to chase down that total. Only thing I would change is being on the right side, but you can't have everything your way,” Stokes said of the match result.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read| </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/eng-vs-nz-2026-3rd-test-new-zealand-crush-england-to-win-series-spoil-ben-stokes-farewell-last-match-in-international-cricket-1782741723315"><strong>Clinical New Zealand crush England in 3rd Test to win series, spoil Ben Stokes' farewell</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Detailing his decision to retire just out of nowhere and in the middle of a Test match, Stokes said he explained most of it to his teammates during the private chatter ahead of the fourth day's play. The England captain added that he did speak with a few close people about this decision, later revealing it to his close group within the team the night before announcing it to the world.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“I explained that in as much detail as I could yesterday. I hope it can be respected that the most important person to make the decision is myself. I spoke to a number of people I trust, tried to get myself through [the series], but it wasn't meant to be,” he added.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Stokes also expressed contentment with finishing his career on a high, but admitted feeling sad about leaving plenty behind.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“Happy with everything I did in my career. It is sad, some things I will miss. A lot of emotion, but I'm proud of what I did and grateful to the fans who follow us around and show their support,” Stokes said.</p><h3>Lucky to play with Root, Cook and Anderson</h3><p>Having shared the English dressing room with perhaps some of the best players of all time, let alone England, including the famous pace duo of James Anderson and Stuart Broad and his former team captains, Joe Root and Alastair Cook, Stokes admitted to remaining in awe.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“Look back at some things been involved in, being able to say I've played with the best players England have produced. I know I've done some decent things on the field, but I'm lucky I've seen Joe Root, Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Alastair Cook. Not only have I been involved as a proud Englishman, but also with some of the greats of the game,” he concluded.&nbsp;</p>

"Proud of what I did" — Read Ben Stokes’ emotional final interview as England captain following his shock international retirement and the Test series finale at Trent Bridge.

England Test captain Ben Stokes has retired from international cricket and no longer holds the top spot in the dressing room. Yet, he feels plenty of emotions and is proud of what he did as an English cricketer in his decorated 15-year-career. Moments after New Zealand crushed England in the third and decisive Test at Trent Bridge (by 160 runs) to win the series (2-1), Stokes gave his final interview in the Test jersey, a format in which his influence peaked and he made countless memories. "It's been a nice couple of days in terms of all that. Would have been great to have ended differently with a result; incredibly hard-fought game by both teams. Credit to New Zealand and the way they operate, especially Daryl (Mitchell) and Rachin (Ravindra). It was always going to be difficult to chase down that total. Only thing I would change is being on the right side, but you can't have everything your way,” Stokes said of the match result. Also read| Clinical New Zealand crush England in 3rd Test to win series, spoil Ben Stokes' farewell Detailing his decision to retire just out of nowhere and in the middle of a Test match, Stokes said he explained most of it to his teammates during the private chatter ahead of the fourth day's play. The England captain added that he did speak with a few close people about this decision, later revealing it to his close group within the team the night before announcing it to the world. “I explained that in as much detail as I could yesterday. I hope it can be respected that the most important person to make the decision is myself. I spoke to a number of people I trust, tried to get myself through [the series], but it wasn't meant to be,” he added. Stokes also expressed contentment with finishing his career on a high, but admitted feeling sad about leaving plenty behind. “Happy with everything I did in my career. It is sad, some things I will miss. A lot of emotion, but I'm proud of what I did and grateful to the fans who follow us around and show their support,” Stokes said. Lucky to play with Root, Cook and Anderson Having shared the English dressing room with perhaps some of the best players of all time, let alone England, including the famous pace duo of James Anderson and Stuart Broad and his former team captains, Joe Root and Alastair Cook, Stokes admitted to remaining in awe. “Look back at some things been involved in, being able to say I've played with the best players England have produced. I know I've done some decent things on the field, but I'm lucky I've seen Joe Root, Stuart Broad, James Anderson, Alastair Cook. Not only have I been involved as a proud Englishman, but also with some of the greats of the game,” he concluded.

<p>"Proud of what I did" — Read Ben Stokes’ emotional final interview as England captain following his shock international retirement and the Test series finale at Trent Bridge.</p>

‘Proud of what I did’: Ben Stokes reflects on decorated England career after shock retirement

<p>New Zealand has completed a brilliant 2-1 Test series win over the hosts, England, after beating them in the third and final Test by 160 runs at Trent Bridge. The Kiwis came from behind to crush England and spoil the final day of international cricket for their Test captain, Ben Stokes. Late on day four of the just-concluded Test, the ECB announced that <a href="England captain Ben Stokes to retire from international cricket after Trent Bridge Test vs NZ">Stokes will relinquish Test captaincy and retire from international cricket</a> after the conclusion of this match.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The talismanic all-rounder, perhaps their most influential cricketer of the past decade, Stokes, opened for England in his final Test innings. He smashed a few fours and a six before getting out for 30, with England losing four wickets on the day's play.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The right-arm pacer returned with six wickets in his final Test, while scoring 45 across both innings.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Our match-winner.<br><br>Our leader.<br><br>Our Superman.<br><br>Ben Stokes, you are a once-in-a-generation cricketer 👑 <a href="https://t.co/0xXZf4RigL">pic.twitter.com/0xXZf4RigL</a></p>&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://x.com/englandcricket/status/2071593812971942168?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 29, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>Stokes retired with over 11,000 international runs in 278 matches and 352 wickets across formats. Recently, he also joined Jacques Kallis in a rare club of all-rounders to complete a rare double of 7000 Test runs and 250 Test wickets, a feat often unheard of in this game. Although his final appearance failed to bring the outcome he and the team wanted, Stokes will walk out as one of England’s most clinical yet successful all-rounders.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Read more| </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-video-emotional-scenes-at-trent-bridge-as-england-players-give-retiring-ben-stokes-guard-of-honour-1782663322799"><strong>WATCH: Emotional scenes at Trent Bridge as England players give retiring Ben Stokes a guard of honour</strong></a></p><h2>New Zealand make merry at Trent Bridge</h2><p>After conceding the first Test at Lord’s by 115 runs, New Zealand crawled its way back into the series by beating a rather inexperienced England team by 253 runs in the next game to level the series. Even with Stokes and Gus Atkinson returning to the playing XI, the two players who made headlines for all the wrong reasons just after the win in the series opener, England failed to click as a unit and put the high-flying Kiwis under their wraps.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>After openers Tom Latham and Devon Conway struck respective 150s in the first innings, helping New Zealand put on 438, Ben Duckett’s 113 and fifties from Jacob Bethell and Harry Brook orchestrated England’s reply of 354.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Daryl Mitchell’s love affair with England and in England continued as he slammed a brilliant unbeaten 100 to put the Kiwis in a commanding position.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Stokes’ retirement announcement did take away the spotlight from Mitchell’s hundred, but not for long, as the Kiwis kept England in check before claiming a win on the fifth day.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Veteran Joe Root and Emilio Gay started proceedings on the final day, only to depart inside one over, leaving England reeling at 116 for six. Keeper-batter Jamie Smith tried his hand at saving his team’s sinking ship (60 off 91 balls) but became the final victim of New Zealand’s super bowling, as they surrendered the Test and series.</p>

New Zealand secured a brilliant 2-1 Test series triumph at Trent Bridge, crushing England by 160 runs to spoil captain Ben Stokes' final day in international cricket. 

New Zealand has completed a brilliant 2-1 Test series win over the hosts, England, after beating them in the third and final Test by 160 runs at Trent Bridge. The Kiwis came from behind to crush England and spoil the final day of international cricket for their Test captain, Ben Stokes. Late on day four of the just-concluded Test, the ECB announced that Stokes will relinquish Test captaincy and retire from international cricket after the conclusion of this match. The talismanic all-rounder, perhaps their most influential cricketer of the past decade, Stokes, opened for England in his final Test innings. He smashed a few fours and a six before getting out for 30, with England losing four wickets on the day's play. The right-arm pacer returned with six wickets in his final Test, while scoring 45 across both innings.

<p>New Zealand secured a brilliant 2-1 Test series triumph at Trent Bridge, crushing England by 160 runs to spoil captain Ben Stokes' final day in international cricket.&nbsp;</p>

Clinical New Zealand crush England in 3rd Test to win series, spoil Ben Stokes' farewell

<p>An hour after the ECB announced Ben Stokes’ decision to retire from international cricket after the conclusion of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, the stadium stood as one to honour the England great. Emotional scenes broke out in Nottingham as shortly after the tea break on day four, England players formed a formal guard of honour, waiting for their captain—and perhaps the most influential English cricketer of the 21st century—to stride out to the loudest cheer of the match. The two New Zealand batters and the entire Nottingham crowd joined in a thunderous ovation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>WATCH VIDEO –</strong></p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">A guard of honour, for the man who has given everything ❤️ <a href="https://t.co/nfjLkLC7wO">pic.twitter.com/nfjLkLC7wO</a></p>&mdash; England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://x.com/englandcricket/status/2071257383158849868?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 28, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>In a shocking turn of events, England Test captain Ben Stokes announced his decision to step aside from international cricket just days after returning to the side following his exile from the squad for the second Test. Stokes and his England team’s quick Gus Atkinson were part of a reported brawl outside a Chelsea club after the first Test.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read| </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-captain-ben-stokes-announces-shock-retirement-from-international-cricket-after-trent-bridge-test-against-new-zealand-1782657693738"><strong>England captain Ben Stokes to retire from international cricket after Trent Bridge Test vs NZ</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Celebrations turned into a disciplinary nightmare for both, as the ECB and Cricket Regulator conducted independent probes into the matter. Although the two parties gave clean chits to the players, Stokes and Atkinson were handed written warnings.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>In between investigations, the selectors dropped the two from the squad for the second Test, instead asking them to play County games for their teams. They abided by it and impressed on returns during the Championship, only for the selectors to withdraw their names midway through the game and bring them back for the decisive Test against New Zealand.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Ben Stokes returned as the captain for the series decider in Nottingham.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The England captain picked up four wickets in the first innings but scored just 15 during England’s reply. In the second innings, he picked up two wickets, as New Zealand declared on 288 for nine, giving the hosts 373 runs to win the final Test and take the series home.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, earlier during the evening session, just before tea, when fans learned about Stokes’ decision to retire, they cheered him for picking up a wicket soon after.</p>

Emotional scenes at Trent Bridge as England players give a guard of honour to retiring captain Ben Stokes after his shock international retirement announcement.

An hour after the ECB announced Ben Stokes’ decision to retire from international cricket after the conclusion of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, the stadium stood as one to honour the England great. Emotional scenes broke out in Nottingham as shortly after the tea break on day four, England players formed a formal guard of honour, waiting for their captain—and perhaps the most influential English cricketer of the 21st century—to stride out to the loudest cheer of the match. The two New Zealand batters and the entire Nottingham crowd joined in a thunderous ovation. WATCH VIDEO –

<p>Emotional scenes at Trent Bridge as England players give a guard of honour to retiring captain Ben Stokes after his shock international retirement announcement.</p>

WATCH: Emotional scenes at Trent Bridge as England players give retiring Ben Stokes guard of honour

<p>In a shocking turn of events, England Test captain Ben Stokes announced his decision to retire from international cricket after the end of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Midway through the fourth day of the decisive Test, Stokes, who returned to leading England following the nightclub incident after the series opener at Lord’s, decided to relinquish Test captaincy and walk away from international cricket.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>England Cricket’s social media handles broke this news on Sunday evening (Jun 28).&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“One of England's all-time greatest captains, Ben Stokes, has decided to retire from international cricket at the end of this Test match.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Ben, you have been the most inspirational captain, leader and legend this team could have ever hoped for.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>We love you so much and wish you all the best in your retirement&nbsp;❤️</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>England will never be the same again,” their social media note read.</p>

<p>The handle also uploaded a video of Stokes breaking this news to his teammates inside the dressing room, revealing the next two days, including the ongoing fourth day, would be his last as their captain and as an English cricketer.</p><h3>Time to say goodbye to international cricket</h3><p>Stokes will bring curtains down on his decorated 15-year-old international career, wherein he won the 2019 ODI World Cup at home, playing the protagonist in the dramatic final at Lord’s. He had also won the 2022 T20 World Cup in Australia, scoring a clinical fifty in the final against Pakistan at the iconic MCG.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Besides winning major ICC tournaments, Stokes’ greatest knock came during the 2019 Leeds Test, when he single-handedly won the game for his team with one wicket remaining. The drama around that finish puts him on a pedestal, enlarging his legacy as one of the most influential English cricketers of the 21st century.</p><h3>Stokes' Last Hurray and controversy</h3><p>Meanwhile, at the ongoing Test in Nottingham, Stokes is bowling his heart out, trying to restrict New Zealand, who have lost eight wickets for 234, leading by 318 runs and counting.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>However, earlier, Stokes and his teammate Gus Atkinson were suspended indefinitely for breaching the ECB’s midnight curfew. After England won at Lord’s, Stokes and Atkinson went partying in a Chelsea club, where they reportedly indulged in a physical brawl, leaving England security bloodied.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The ECB and Cricket Regulator conducted independent probes into the matter, with both coming out clean.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>While that was happening in the background, the English selectors dropped the pair from the squad for the second Test, which they lost horrendously by 253 runs.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>The two, however, were asked to play for their respective County clubs, and while they did so, impressing all, the selectors withdrew them from those matches. Later, Stokes and Atkinson were made available for selection for the third Test and eventually returned to the setup.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>In the meantime, several reports suggested that Stokes did contemplate international retirement and relinquishing Test captaincy, only for him to come back and then announce the same publicly. &nbsp;</p>

England captain Ben Stokes has announced a shock retirement from international cricket, confirming he will step down after the ongoing Trent Bridge Test against New Zealand. 

In a shocking turn of events, England Test captain Ben Stokes announced his decision to retire from international cricket after the end of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Midway through the fourth day of the decisive Test, Stokes, who returned to leading England following the nightclub incident after the series opener at Lord’s, decided to relinquish Test captaincy and walk away from international cricket. England Cricket’s social media handles broke this news on Sunday evening (Jun 28). “One of England's all-time greatest captains, Ben Stokes, has decided to retire from international cricket at the end of this Test match. Ben, you have been the most inspirational captain, leader and legend this team could have ever hoped for. We love you so much and wish you all the best in your retirement ❤️ England will never be the same again,” their social media note read.

<p>England captain Ben Stokes has announced a shock retirement from international cricket, confirming he will step down after the ongoing Trent Bridge Test against New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

England captain Ben Stokes to retire from international cricket after Trent Bridge Test vs NZ

<p>England will have a major boost before their ODI World Cup campaign gets underway in October as star man Ben Stokes is set to return to the 50-over format. Stokes, 32, was named in England’s latest ODI squad on Wednesday, August 16, as he makes his return to the circuit a year after announcing his retirement from the format. The sensational all-rounder had led England to their only ODI World Cup win in 2019 when he displayed pure quality to lead his team home.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The big man is back 🔥<br />
<br />
Luke Wright on the sensational return of Ben Stokes to ODI cricket... 👇</p>
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) <a href="https://twitter.com/englandcricket/status/1691744685738389951?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Stokes returns</strong></h2>

<p>The England Test captain was pushed by senior England players and selectors in recent times to make a comeback to the 50-over format, having hanged his boots during the South Africa series last year. However, developments on Wednesday saw him return to the squad as England bid to defend their World Cup crown in India. Stokes has been a regular feature in the England T20I and Test squad but has not played in the ODI team since last July.</p>

<p>The selector’s panel led by former all-rounder Luke Wright intends&nbsp;to use Ben Stokes as a key member of the team when England get their campaign in the World Cup underway. The 15-member squad for the New Zealand series is most likely to travel to the World Cup where they will play in the curtain-raiser encounter against New Zealand on October 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.</p>

<p>Interestingly, Stokes has not played white-ball cricket for England since the final of the T20 World Cup in Melbourne in November 2022. He has been away from the national set-up for the limited-overs format, promoting retirement talks. However, his return to the national team for the New Zealand series will be a big addition to the side as they enter a crucial couple of months.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-needs-to-be-more-aggressive-kapil-dev-advises-indian-captain-cites-bazballs-example-626012">Rohit Sharma needs to be more aggressive: Kapil Dev advises Indian captain, cites Bazball's example</a></p>

<p>The 32-year-old has represented England in 105 ODI matches, scoring 2924 runs with a best of unbeaten 102 along with three hundreds. He also has 74 wickets in the ODI format before he opted to quit the format. A sensational 84-run knock in the final of the ODI World Cup in 2019 saw England tie the contest before winning it in the Super Over against New Zealand.</p>

<h2><strong>England ODI Squad:</strong></h2>

<p>Jos Buttler (capt), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes</p>

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England will have a major boost before their ODI World Cup campaign gets underway in October as star man Ben Stokes is set to return to the 50-over format. Stokes, 32, was named in England’s latest ODI squad on Wednesday, August 16, as he makes his return to the circuit a year after announcing his retirement from the format.

England will have a major boost before their ODI World Cup campaign gets underway in October as star man Ben Stokes is set to return to the 50-over format. Stokes, 32, was named in England’s latest ODI squad on Wednesday, August 16, as he makes his return to the circuit a year after announcing his retirement from the format. The sensational all-rounder had led England to their only ODI World Cup win in 2019 when he displayed pure quality to lead his team home. The big man is back 🔥 Luke Wright on the sensational return of Ben Stokes to ODI cricket... 👇 — England Cricket (@englandcricket) August 16, 2023 × Stokes returns The England Test captain was pushed by senior England players and selectors in recent times to make a comeback to the 50-over format, having hanged his boots during the South Africa series last year. However, developments on Wednesday saw him return to the squad as England bid to defend their World Cup crown in India. Stokes has been a regular feature in the England T20I and Test squad but has not played in the ODI team since last July. The selector’s panel led by former all-rounder Luke Wright intends to use Ben Stokes as a key member of the team when England get their campaign in the World Cup underway. The 15-member squad for the New Zealand series is most likely to travel to the World Cup where they will play in the curtain-raiser encounter against New Zealand on October 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Interestingly, Stokes has not played white-ball cricket for England since the final of the T20 World Cup in Melbourne in November 2022. He has been away from the national set-up for the limited-overs format, promoting retirement talks. However, his return to the national team for the New Zealand series will be a big addition to the side as they enter a crucial couple of months. ALSO READ | Rohit Sharma needs to be more aggressive: Kapil Dev advises Indian captain, cites Bazball's example The 32-year-old has represented England in 105 ODI matches, scoring 2924 runs with a best of unbeaten 102 along with three hundreds. He also has 74 wickets in the ODI format before he opted to quit the format. A sensational 84-run knock in the final of the ODI World Cup in 2019 saw England tie the contest before winning it in the Super Over against New Zealand. England ODI Squad: Jos Buttler (capt), Moeen Ali, Gus Atkinson, Jonny Bairstow, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Dawid Malan, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Reece Topley, David Willey, Mark Wood, Chris Woakes WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

England's Ben Stokes reverses ODI retirement before World Cup; set to return for New Zealand series

<p>Former England captain Nasser Hussain said Test captain Ben Stokes' shock retirement from ODIs is disappointing news to say the least. Stokes announced his decision to quit the fifty-over format on Monday (July 18) and confirmed he will play his final ODI against South Africa in Durham on Tuesday. The 31-year-old is one of the best payers England have and was one of the key members of the team across all three formats.</p>

<p>Stokes is regarded as one of the best all-rounders in world cricket at present and his decision to quit ODIs came as a shock to many. The England all-rounder said he decided to quit ODIs as it felt it was 'unsustainable' for him to carry on playing all three formats of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p>England's 2019 ODI World Cup hero has dealt with mental fatigue and injuries in the recent past. Stokes had taken a mental health break from cricket last year and had also missed the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. He then gave a miss to IPL 2022 and also puled out of The Hundred this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reacting to his shock retirement from ODIs, Hussain blamed the packed cricket schedule which he believes is proving to be a nightmare for cricketers. Hussain said the current schedule in cricket is 'madness' for players and it's hard to cope for even the best of best like Stokes, who wants to give his all whenever he takes the field for England.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-reacts-as-ben-stokes-retires-from-odis-youre-the-most-competitive-bloke-ive-played-against-498550">Virat Kohli reacts as Ben Stokes retires from ODIs: 'You're the most competitive bloke I've played against'</a></p>

<p>"It is disappointing news to say the least but it is a reflection of where the cricketing schedule is at the moment. It is madness for players," Nasser Hussain said on <em>Sky Sports</em>.</p>

<p>"Half the reasons (for his retirement decision) will be physical, and half will be mental, and mental in Ben's case is the fact he can't do things at 70, 80%. He's not just going to be a bit-part player, he has to do it full on and he's not willing to do it unless he does it 100 percent.</p>

<p>"In a way, I respect him immensely for making that decision because that's how you want every England cricketer to turn up, giving it everything every single day," he added.</p>

<p>Stokes was one of England's best players in the 2019 ODI World Cup where he scored 457 runs and picked up 7 wickets to play an instrumental role in helping his team lift their maiden World Cup title. He has played a total of 104 ODIs for England so far in his career, amassing 2919 runs and picking up 74 wickets for the team.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-2019-world-cup-hero-ben-stokes-announces-retirement-from-odi-cricket-498499"> England's 2019 World Cup hero Ben Stokes announces retirement from ODI cricket</a></p>

<p>He had recently taken over as England's Test captain from Joe Root and said he wasn't able to give his 100 percent in all three formats which is why he decided to retire from ODIs. Hussain has blamed the 'absolutely crazy' cricket schedule for forcing Stokes into retiring from ODIs early in his career.</p>

<p>"I guess it's the schedule. The cricketing schedule is absolutely crazy at the moment. If you just play in the one format - say Test matches - it's absolutely fine," said Hussain.</p>

<p>"But if you're a multi-format, multi-dimensional player, and even a Test Match captain like Ben Stokes, who throws himself into his job 100% on and off the field, eventually something's going to have to give, and it looks like for Ben it is 50-over cricket which is a real shame because he gave us and England fans the greatest day for a very long time in 2019, a day we'll never forget with that World Cup final," added the former England captain.</p>


Former England captain Nasser Hussain said Test captain Ben Stokes' shock retirement from ODIs is disappointing news to say the least. Stokes announced his decision to quit the fifty-over format on Monday (July 18) and confirmed he will play his final ODI against South Africa in Durham on Tuesday.

Former England captain Nasser Hussain said Test captain Ben Stokes' shock retirement from ODIs is disappointing news to say the least. Stokes announced his decision to quit the fifty-over format on Monday (July 18) and confirmed he will play his final ODI against South Africa in Durham on Tuesday. The 31-year-old is one of the best payers England have and was one of the key members of the team across all three formats. Stokes is regarded as one of the best all-rounders in world cricket at present and his decision to quit ODIs came as a shock to many. The England all-rounder said he decided to quit ODIs as it felt it was 'unsustainable' for him to carry on playing all three formats of the game. England's 2019 ODI World Cup hero has dealt with mental fatigue and injuries in the recent past. Stokes had taken a mental health break from cricket last year and had also missed the T20 World Cup 2021 in the UAE. He then gave a miss to IPL 2022 and also puled out of The Hundred this year. Reacting to his shock retirement from ODIs, Hussain blamed the packed cricket schedule which he believes is proving to be a nightmare for cricketers. Hussain said the current schedule in cricket is 'madness' for players and it's hard to cope for even the best of best like Stokes, who wants to give his all whenever he takes the field for England. Also Read: Virat Kohli reacts as Ben Stokes retires from ODIs: 'You're the most competitive bloke I've played against' "It is disappointing news to say the least but it is a reflection of where the cricketing schedule is at the moment. It is madness for players," Nasser Hussain said on Sky Sports. "Half the reasons (for his retirement decision) will be physical, and half will be mental, and mental in Ben's case is the fact he can't do things at 70, 80%. He's not just going to be a bit-part player, he has to do it full on and he's not willing to do it unless he does it 100 percent. "In a way, I respect him immensely for making that decision because that's how you want every England cricketer to turn up, giving it everything every single day," he added. Stokes was one of England's best players in the 2019 ODI World Cup where he scored 457 runs and picked up 7 wickets to play an instrumental role in helping his team lift their maiden World Cup title. He has played a total of 104 ODIs for England so far in his career, amassing 2919 runs and picking up 74 wickets for the team. Also Read: England's 2019 World Cup hero Ben Stokes announces retirement from ODI cricket He had recently taken over as England's Test captain from Joe Root and said he wasn't able to give his 100 percent in all three formats which is why he decided to retire from ODIs. Hussain has blamed the 'absolutely crazy' cricket schedule for forcing Stokes into retiring from ODIs early in his career. "I guess it's the schedule. The cricketing schedule is absolutely crazy at the moment. If you just play in the one format - say Test matches - it's absolutely fine," said Hussain. "But if you're a multi-format, multi-dimensional player, and even a Test Match captain like Ben Stokes, who throws himself into his job 100% on and off the field, eventually something's going to have to give, and it looks like for Ben it is 50-over cricket which is a real shame because he gave us and England fans the greatest day for a very long time in 2019, a day we'll never forget with that World Cup final," added the former England captain.

'Cricketing schedule is absolutely crazy': Ex-England skipper Nasser Hussain dejected as Ben Stokes quits ODIs

<p>England all-rounder Ben Stokes shockingly announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Tuesday (July 18), confirming that he will play his final ODI for the country in the series-opener against South Africa in Durham on Tuesday. Stokes is regarded as one of the best all-rounders in world cricket and is a vital cog for England across all three formats of the game.</p>

<p>He was recently appointed as England's Test captain and has decided to quit the fifty-over format to focus on Tests and T20Is. Regarded as one of the best all-rounders in the world, Stokes had played a key role in helping England win their maiden ODI World Cup title in 2019.</p>

<p>The star all-rounder scored 465 runs and picked up 7 wickets for England in the 2019 World Cup, including a sensational knock of unbeaten 84 in the final which helped Eoin Morgan &amp; Co. force the summit clash into a Super Over and beat New Zealand in the summit clash to lift the elusive trophy.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-and-test-tons-in-england-rishabh-pant-becomes-1st-asian-wicket-keeper-batter-to-achieve-remarkable-feat-498454">ODI and Test tons in England! Pant becomes 1st Asian wicket-keeper batter to achieve remarkable feat</a></p>

<p>Reacting to his retirement announcement, Indian superstar Virat Kohli lauded Stokes for the brave decision and called the 31-year-old the most competitive player he has played against. Kohli dropped a comment on Stokes' post on Instagram announcing his retirement from the fifty-over format.</p>

<p>"You’re the most competitive bloke I’ve ever played against. Respect," wrote the former India captain.</p>

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<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/englands-2019-world-cup-hero-ben-stokes-announces-retirement-from-odi-cricket-498499">England's 2019 World Cup hero Ben Stokes announces retirement from ODI cricket</a></p>

<p>In his statement, Stokes explained why he decided to quit ODIs despite being only 31 and said he felt playing all three formats was becoming unsustainable for him. The England all-rounder said he felt like his body his letting him down and wants to ensure someone who can give his all for the team gets a chance to take his place in England's ODI setup.</p>

<p>"Three formats are just unsustainable for me now. Not only do I feel that my body is letting me down because of the schedule and what is expected of us, but I also feel that I am taking the place of another player who can give Jos and the rest of the team their all. It’s time for someone else to progress as a cricketer and make incredible memories like I have over the past 11 years," said Stokes.</p>

<p>The star all-rounder has played 104 ODIs for England so far in his career and has amassed&nbsp;2919 runs in the format at an average of over 39. He has 3 hundreds and 21 fifties to his name in the fifty-over format along with 74 wickets.</p>


England all-rounder Ben Stokes shockingly announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Tuesday (July 18), confirming that he will play his final ODI for the country in the series-opener against South Africa in Durham on Tuesday.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes shockingly announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Tuesday (July 18), confirming that he will play his final ODI for the country in the series-opener against South Africa in Durham on Tuesday. Stokes is regarded as one of the best all-rounders in world cricket and is a vital cog for England across all three formats of the game. He was recently appointed as England's Test captain and has decided to quit the fifty-over format to focus on Tests and T20Is. Regarded as one of the best all-rounders in the world, Stokes had played a key role in helping England win their maiden ODI World Cup title in 2019. The star all-rounder scored 465 runs and picked up 7 wickets for England in the 2019 World Cup, including a sensational knock of unbeaten 84 in the final which helped Eoin Morgan & Co. force the summit clash into a Super Over and beat New Zealand in the summit clash to lift the elusive trophy. Also Read: ODI and Test tons in England! Pant becomes 1st Asian wicket-keeper batter to achieve remarkable feat Reacting to his retirement announcement, Indian superstar Virat Kohli lauded Stokes for the brave decision and called the 31-year-old the most competitive player he has played against. Kohli dropped a comment on Stokes' post on Instagram announcing his retirement from the fifty-over format. "You’re the most competitive bloke I’ve ever played against. Respect," wrote the former India captain. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ben Stokes (@stokesy) × Also Read: England's 2019 World Cup hero Ben Stokes announces retirement from ODI cricket In his statement, Stokes explained why he decided to quit ODIs despite being only 31 and said he felt playing all three formats was becoming unsustainable for him. The England all-rounder said he felt like his body his letting him down and wants to ensure someone who can give his all for the team gets a chance to take his place in England's ODI setup. "Three formats are just unsustainable for me now. Not only do I feel that my body is letting me down because of the schedule and what is expected of us, but I also feel that I am taking the place of another player who can give Jos and the rest of the team their all. It’s time for someone else to progress as a cricketer and make incredible memories like I have over the past 11 years," said Stokes. The star all-rounder has played 104 ODIs for England so far in his career and has amassed 2919 runs in the format at an average of over 39. He has 3 hundreds and 21 fifties to his name in the fifty-over format along with 74 wickets.

Virat Kohli reacts as Ben Stokes retires from ODIs: 'You're the most competitive bloke I've played against'

<p>England all-rounder Ben Stokes surprisingly announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Monday (July 18). One of the best all-rounders in the world at present, Stokes was recently appointed as England's Test captain after Joe Root stepped down from the post. Stokes said he is now willing to focus entirely on Tests and T20Is, and give his all in the two formats.</p>

<p>Stokes confirmed he will play his last ODI for England when the hosts take on South Africa in the opening game of the upcoming three-match series at the Riverside Ground in&nbsp;Chester-le-Street on Tuesday. His final ODI appearance for England will come at his home ground in Durham.</p>

<p>“I will play my last game for England in ODI cricket on Tuesday in Durham. I have decided to retire from this format. This has been an incredibly tough decision to make. I have loved every minute of playing with my mates for England. We have had an incredible journey on the way," Stokes said in a statement on Twitter.</p>

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<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-and-test-tons-in-england-rishabh-pant-becomes-1st-asian-wicket-keeper-batter-to-achieve-remarkable-feat-498454">ODI and Test tons in England!&nbsp;Pant becomes 1st Asian wicket-keeper batter to achieve remarkable feat</a></p>

<p>Explaining the reason behind his retirement, Stokes said he believes playing all three formats of the game is unsustainable for him and his body is letting him down. The all-rounder feels he should make way for someone who can give his all to the team in the fifty-over format.</p>

<p>“As hard as a decision as this was to come to, it’s not as hard dealing with the fact I can’t give my teammates 100% of myself in this format anymore. The England shirt deserves nothing less from anyone who wears it.</p>

<p>“Three formats are just unsustainable for me now. Not only do I feel that my body is letting me down because of the schedule and what is expected of us, but I also feel that I am taking the place of another player who can give Jos and the rest of the team their all. It’s time for someone else to progress as a cricketer and make incredible memories like I have over the past 11 years," Stokes explained.</p>

<p>Stokes, who was one of the heroes of England's maiden ODI World Cup triumph in 2019, said retiring from ODIs will help him shift his focus entirely on Tests and T20Is. Nonetheless, his absence in ODIs&nbsp;will be a huge loss for England, who will be defending their title in the ODI World Cup next year.</p>

<p>“I will give everything I have to Test cricket, and now, with this decision, I feel I can also give my total commitment to the T20 format," said Stokes.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-joins-ms-dhoni-and-md-azharuddin-in-elite-list-after-india-win-odi-series-versus-england-498482">Rohit Sharma joins MS Dhoni and Md Azharuddin in elite list after India win ODI series versus England</a></p>

<p>The all-rounder's decision to quit ODI format comes immediately after England's 2-1 loss against India in the recently-cocnldued ODI series at home. England are currently undergoing a massive transition in white-ball cricket following the retirement of former captain Eoin Morgan, who led a white-ball revolution for the team and helped them win their maiden World Cup in 2019.</p>

<p>Stokes was one of the best all-rounders in the 2019 ODI World Cup where he notched up 465 runs and picked up 7 wickets in 11 matches for England to play an intrumental role in their title triumph. He has so far played 104 ODIs for England, amassing&nbsp;2919 runs at an average of 39.44, including 3 centuries and 21 fifties. He has also picked up 74 wickets in the fifty-over format and will play his final ODI game against South Africa on Tuesday.</p>


England all-rounder Ben Stokes surprisingly announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Monday (July 18). One of the best all-rounders in the world at present, Stokes was recently appointed as England's Test captain after Joe Root stepped down from the post.

England all-rounder Ben Stokes surprisingly announced his retirement from ODI cricket on Monday (July 18). One of the best all-rounders in the world at present, Stokes was recently appointed as England's Test captain after Joe Root stepped down from the post. Stokes said he is now willing to focus entirely on Tests and T20Is, and give his all in the two formats. Stokes confirmed he will play his last ODI for England when the hosts take on South Africa in the opening game of the upcoming three-match series at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street on Tuesday. His final ODI appearance for England will come at his home ground in Durham. “I will play my last game for England in ODI cricket on Tuesday in Durham. I have decided to retire from this format. This has been an incredibly tough decision to make. I have loved every minute of playing with my mates for England. We have had an incredible journey on the way," Stokes said in a statement on Twitter. pic.twitter.com/xTS5oNfN2j — Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) July 18, 2022 × Also Read: ODI and Test tons in England! Pant becomes 1st Asian wicket-keeper batter to achieve remarkable feat Explaining the reason behind his retirement, Stokes said he believes playing all three formats of the game is unsustainable for him and his body is letting him down. The all-rounder feels he should make way for someone who can give his all to the team in the fifty-over format. “As hard as a decision as this was to come to, it’s not as hard dealing with the fact I can’t give my teammates 100% of myself in this format anymore. The England shirt deserves nothing less from anyone who wears it. “Three formats are just unsustainable for me now. Not only do I feel that my body is letting me down because of the schedule and what is expected of us, but I also feel that I am taking the place of another player who can give Jos and the rest of the team their all. It’s time for someone else to progress as a cricketer and make incredible memories like I have over the past 11 years," Stokes explained. Stokes, who was one of the heroes of England's maiden ODI World Cup triumph in 2019, said retiring from ODIs will help him shift his focus entirely on Tests and T20Is. Nonetheless, his absence in ODIs will be a huge loss for England, who will be defending their title in the ODI World Cup next year. “I will give everything I have to Test cricket, and now, with this decision, I feel I can also give my total commitment to the T20 format," said Stokes. Also Read: Rohit Sharma joins MS Dhoni and Md Azharuddin in elite list after India win ODI series versus England The all-rounder's decision to quit ODI format comes immediately after England's 2-1 loss against India in the recently-cocnldued ODI series at home. England are currently undergoing a massive transition in white-ball cricket following the retirement of former captain Eoin Morgan, who led a white-ball revolution for the team and helped them win their maiden World Cup in 2019. Stokes was one of the best all-rounders in the 2019 ODI World Cup where he notched up 465 runs and picked up 7 wickets in 11 matches for England to play an intrumental role in their title triumph. He has so far played 104 ODIs for England, amassing 2919 runs at an average of 39.44, including 3 centuries and 21 fifties. He has also picked up 74 wickets in the fifty-over format and will play his final ODI game against South Africa on Tuesday.

England's 2019 World Cup hero Ben Stokes announces retirement from ODI cricket