England Test captain Ben Stokes announces international retirement

The England Test captain, Ben Stokes, has announced his retirement from international cricket during the third Test against New Zealand.

Stokes issued a statement shortly before tea on day four, having informed his teammates in the dressing room at Trent Bridge before the start of play.

As the news broke, Stokes was about to complete a mammoth 10-over spell in Nottingham. He then took the wicket of Zak Foulkes – a dismissal that drew rapturous applause from the crowd.

“One of England’s all-time greatest captains, Ben Stokes, has decided to retire from international cricket at the end of this Test match,” England Cricket posted on social media, alongside a video of Stokes telling his teammates the news.

”Ben, you have been the most inspirational captain, leader and legend this team could have ever hoped for,” the post added. “We love you so much and wish you all the best in your retirement ❤️ England will never be the same again.”

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