Overview
- Stokes announced his international retirement during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge on Friday and then took a wicket with his next delivery.
- England lost that match by 160 runs to lose the series 2-1, with Stokes promoted to open in his final innings before being dismissed.
- The decision follows a recent curfew breach that led the ECB to issue written warnings and a regulator’s finding of insufficient evidence of violent conduct.
- Stokes posted an emotional farewell on social media saying “It’s been a mad 15 years,” and has confirmed he will continue playing domestically for Durham.
- He leaves with an unusual statistical legacy — reported batting in all 11 Test positions and joining Jacques Kallis in the 7,000+ runs and 250+ wickets double — while commentators speculate about a possible return despite Stokes saying he is done.