Ben Stokes delivers final verdict on retirement, rules out Ashes return

Ben Stokes has put an end to all the rumours about a possible return to international cricket. After shocking the cricket world with his retirement announcement, Ben Stokes made it clear that he has no plans to represent England again, not even for next year’s Ashes against Australia.

His decision has come as another big blow for England fans, who were hoping that the all-rounder might change his mind after spending some time away from the game. But Stokes has now confirmed that his international career is officially over and he will not take a U-turn.

Ben Stokes ends all Ashes comeback hopes

Ben Stokes’ final international match ended on a disappointing note as England lost the third and final Test against New Zealand by 160 runs at Trent Bridge on Monday (June 29). With this crushing defeat, England suffered a 2-1 Test series loss to New Zealand at home.

After the final match, many people wondered whether Stokes could make a comeback for the Ashes next year, especially because he had returned from ODI retirement before the 2023 World Cup. Amid this, Jofra Archer shares heartfelt message after Ben Stokes’ retirement, calls himself ‘lucky’.

However, this time the 35-year-old has made it clear that there will be no return. He said he took this decision only after thinking about it for a long time and is completely happy with it. He also confirmed that he has no plans to reverse his retirement in the future.

“I’m done”: Ben Stokes on possible retirement U-Turn

Ben Stokes was quoted as saying by BBC Test Match Special: “I am incredibly content with everything right now. It is a decision I don’t take lightly. It has taken a lot of time. I am done. I am very happy.” On being asked again if he was sure, Stokes replied by saying, “Sure.”

Meanwhile, England head coach Brendon McCullum also shared that he tried to convince Stokes to continue playing after hearing about his decision on Sunday. But despite McCullum’s efforts, Stokes had already made up his mind and decided that this was the right time to leave.

“Nightclub row and mental pressure”: Ben Stokes on retirement decision

The England all-rounder also admitted that the last few weeks had been very difficult for him. Stokes was left out of the second Test after breaking the team’s midnight curfew.

However, Stokes explained that the biggest reason for retiring was the physical and mental pressure that had built up over the past six to twelve months, but the nightclub incident also played a role in his decision.

He also admitted that leading England was one of the greatest honours of his life but said that retirement was the best thing for him. Stokes added, “Again, there has been a series of unfortunate events happening. I am sure over the next couple of weeks we will be able to decompress and say, ‘Has it contributed?’ Maybe.

But the overriding fact is that over the last six to 12 months everything I have done over a long period has taken its toll. Being in this role, as good as it is, as exciting as it is, and as big an honour as it is, there are some negative aspects.”