Ben Stokes announces retirement from international cricket after New Zealand Test

England captain Ben Stokes has announced that he will retire from international cricket, bringing an end to one of the most remarkable careers in modern English cricket. The 35-year-old will play his final international match after the conclusion of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.Stokes informed his England teammates about his decision before the start of play on the fourth day of the Test. Shortly afterwards, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) officially confirmed the news, marking the end of an era for English cricket.The all-rounder first represented England in limited-overs cricket in 2011 before making his Test debut during the 2013 Ashes series in Adelaide. Over the years, he established himself as one of the world’s finest all-rounders, producing several memorable performances with both bat and ball.Known for his fearless approach and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations, Stokes played a crucial role in many of England’s biggest victories. His aggressive leadership and never-give-up attitude also helped shape the team’s modern identity after taking over as Test captain.ECB chair Richard Thompson paid tribute to the veteran, describing him as one of England’s greatest-ever cricketers and one of the defining figures of his generation. He praised Stokes for his outstanding contributions to English cricket both as a player and as a leader.Stokes’ retirement marks the conclusion of a career filled with unforgettable performances, inspiring leadership and countless milestones. His impact on England cricket extends beyond statistics, with his fighting spirit and commitment earning admiration from teammates, opponents and fans across the world.As he prepares to leave the international stage after the Trent Bridge Test, Stokes will be remembered as one of England’s finest all-rounders and a player who transformed the fortunes of the national team during one of its most successful modern eras.