INTERNATIONAL — June 29, 2026
England Captain Ben Stokes Announces Retirement from International Cricket
Stokes took a wicket immediately after the announcement and scored 30 runs off 20 balls while opening the batting for England in their chase of 373.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Pajhwok — 2 min read

England captain Ben Stokes has announced his retirement from international cricket at the end of the ongoing third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. The decision was made during the match on Sunday. Stokes informed his teammates of the decision ahead of the fourth day and delivered an emotional message in the dressing room.
Immediately after the news broke, Stokes took a wicket with the next delivery, dismissing Zak Foulkes. England are chasing 373 for victory in the match that marks the end of his 15-year international career. Stokes promoted himself to open the innings and scored 30 off 20 balls before being dismissed.
Stokes had missed the second Test due to an off-field incident in London. He had described his captaincy role as limited to this week. The announcement came as the team continued its series against New Zealand with Stokes still participating on the field.
Read the original reporting at Pajhwok →
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Single source provides direct, concrete, checkable details including named player, specific match venue, timing, scores, and sequence of events with attribution to BBC reporting
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International — Ben Stokes, England cricket, New Zealand, Trent Bridge, Test retirement
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