England cricket captain Ben Stokes made a surprise announcement that he will retire from international cricket immediately after the third and deciding Test against New Zealand.
In a video released by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Stokes told his teammates in the dressing room at Trent Bridge on Sunday: "These are my last two days as captain and representing England."
The shocking announcement came 15 minutes before the tea break. Shortly after, Stokes took a wicket and received a standing ovation as he led the team off the field at the end of the innings.
Stokes said in his dressing-room speech: "The reason can wait. But I have given everything for this team many times, and I have one more time to give."
Stokes, 35, is one of the world's most famous cricketers. He has represented England for 15 years, with a career peak in 2019 when he starred in the dramatic victory over New Zealand in the 50-over World Cup final at Lord's.
He was also a key member of the England team that won the T20 World Cup in 2022, the same year he became Test captain.
The retirement decision comes after Stokes was suspended from the second Test following an investigation into an incident where he and teammate Gus Atkinson went clubbing in London, during which an ECB security guard was assaulted by a rugby player. Although the ECB later warned and reduced the penalty, an independent watchdog said there was insufficient evidence of a rules violation.
ECB chairman Richard Thompson hailed Stokes as "one of England's greatest cricketers and an icon of his generation. His performances under pressure, relentless competitiveness, and brilliance in crucial moments have left eternal memories for me and millions of fans."
"Beyond on-field achievements, his performances have inspired many young people to love cricket with positivity and belief. We are losing a batsman, a bowler, a captain, and the soul of the team."
