Ben Stokes Retires After 15-Year England Career at 35, Citing Burnout

3 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 28

35-year-old Ben Stokes said England’s deciding Test against New Zealand will be his last, ending an international career spanning 122 Tests, 114 ODIs and 43 T20s.
Burnout drove the decision: Stokes said the strain of captaining England and the physical work needed to manage repeated injuries had left him drained mentally and physically.
Lord’s this summer revived “negative feelings” that had lingered since the 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia, and Stokes said a recent London nightclub controversy added to thoughts of retiring.
Durham helped clarify the choice — Stokes said county cricket rekindled his love for the game, and he plans to keep playing domestically after leaving the international stage.
His exit closes one of England’s most decorated careers, including the 2019 50-over World Cup, the 2022 T20 World Cup and a defining Ashes-winning role.

Sources

bbc.co.uk2h ago

England Captain Ben Stokes Retires from International Cricket Citing Burnout

Chester's Dee Radio21h ago

England captain Ben Stokes to retire from international cricket after NZ Test | Radio NewsHub

Norwich Evening News4h ago

England captain Ben Stokes to retire from international cricket after NZ Test | Norwich Evening News

10 Sources

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Ben Stokes Retires from International Cricket After 122 Tests: Leadership Void and ECB Challenges Ahead

Overview

Ben Stokes has officially announced his international retirement, effective June 28, 2026, bringing an end to his remarkable 15-year career. The news sent shockwaves through the cricketing world as Stokes informed his England teammates in an emotional dressing room address before his 122nd and final Test match. His decision, shaped by the physical and mental demands of the game, recent team controversies, and the pressures of leadership, leaves a significant void in English cricket. Stokes' legacy as a talismanic all-rounder and inspirational captain will be remembered for his match-winning performances and deep impact on the team.

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