England captain Ben Stokes has announced he will retire from international cricket after the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, bringing an end to a remarkable 15-year career, reports BSS.
The 35-year-old all-rounder informed his teammates of his decision before the fourth day of the decisive Test. Shortly after the announcement was made public, Stokes struck with the very next ball, dismissing Zak Foulkes to cap an emotional moment.
"The reasons can wait, but I've got one more trip to do," Stokes told his teammates. "All I ask is that everyone gives everything over these last two days."
Stokes later scored a quickfire 30 off 20 balls in what proved to be his final Test innings before being dismissed by Foulkes.
Widely regarded as one of England's greatest all-rounders, Stokes finishes his career with 122 Tests, scoring 7,273 runs and taking 252 wickets. He also played 114 ODIs and 43 T20Is, helping England win the 2019 ODI World Cup and the 2022 T20 World Cup.
His unforgettable 135 not out against Australia at Headingley in the 2019 Ashes and his World Cup final heroics remain among the greatest moments in England's cricket history.
As captain, Stokes led England's aggressive "Bazball" era alongside head coach Brendon McCullum, revitalising the Test side after taking charge in 2022.
England are expected to name vice-captain Harry Brook as Stokes' successor ahead of the Test series against Pakistan in August.
Bd-Pratidin English/ AM
