Stokes bid an emotional farewell to international cricket on Friday, thanking supporters and team-mates for a “mad 15 years” in the England shirt.
The 35-year-old former captain retired in dramatic fashion during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, announcing his exit on the fourth afternoon before taking a wicket with his very next ball.
It capped a turbulent few weeks that began with victory at Lord’s, before he missed the Oval defeat after breaching a team curfew, then returned for one final Test, only to be promoted to open the batting as England slumped to a 160-run loss and a 2-1 series defeat.
It’s been a mad 15 years. It’s had everything thrown in there, from the highest highs to the lowest lows (on and off the field 😜).
My time was up, and no one was going to be able to make that decision other than me.
But in the meantime, I just want to say I ❤️ every single…
— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) July 3, 2026
Posting on X after time away with his family, Stokes thanked those who had supported him throughout his career.
“It’s been a mad 15 years,” he wrote. “It’s had everything thrown in there, from the highest highs to the lowest lows, on and off the field. My time was up, and no one was going to make that decision other than me.”
Stokes, who will continue playing for Durham, added: “I love every single person I’ve walked out onto the field with representing England.”
– AFP
Photo: Reuters/Andrew Boyers
