Ben Stokes Retires from Test Cricket During New Zealand Series Decider

England all‑rounder Ben Stokes announced his retirement from Test cricket on the fourth day of the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, ending a 15‑year international career and stepping down as England’s Test captain. The decision came with the series tied 1‑1, and England eventually lost the match and the series 1‑2.

England head coach Brendon McCullum said he tried to persuade Stokes to stay, but Stokes was resolute. McCullum recalled, “I tried to talk him down,” and described Stokes as a “leader of men” whose presence will be missed on and off the field.