Ben Stokes posted a farewell message on social media a few days after ending his international career, thanking England teammates, supporters and others connected with his 15-year journey.
Stokes announced his retirement during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Moments after issuing an official statement, Stokes claimed his final wicket for England, according to the Times of India report.
Stokes said only he could decide when his England career was over
Stokes wrote on X that his international career had covered “the highest highs to the lowest lows” and said the decision to stop had to be his own.
Supplemental editorial cricket visual for Ben Stokes reflects on "mad 15 years" after England farewell.
Stokes wrote: “It’s been a mad 15 years. It’s had everything thrown in there, from the highest highs to the lowest lows (on and off the field).”
Stokes added: “My time was up, and no one was going to be able to make that decision other than me. But in the meantime, I just want to say I love every single England fan and every single cricket fan who’s supported me over the years.”
Supplemental editorial cricket visual for Ben Stokes reflects on "mad 15 years" after England farewell.
New Zealand ended Stokes’ final Test with a series win
New Zealand beat England by 160 runs in the third Test and won the series, with Stokes watching the closing stages from the balcony after being dismissed in his final innings.
Supplemental editorial cricket visual for Ben Stokes reflects on "mad 15 years" after England farewell.
Stokes’ final weeks included England’s victory in the first Test at Lord’s, his absence from the second Test after a night out in London led to an official conduct warning, and his return for the last match in Nottingham.
Stokes also promoted himself to open the batting in his last Test innings before England lost the series decider.
The farewell message focused on teammates, fans and family
Stokes thanked the people who had shared the field with him for England and said he was looking forward to supporting the team as a fan.
Stokes wrote: “I love every single person I’ve walked out onto the field with representing England. I could go on and on, but I hope you get the gist of how much I loved doing what I did for 15 years. I’m looking forward to being a fan and supporting the team, and the odd day in hospitality won’t go amiss.”
Stokes closed the message by writing: “Family, friends, teammates, fans…I love yas all.”
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