Stokes steps down as England captain and announces international retirement

Ben Stokes will retire as England Men's Test Captain and from international cricket at end of their series with New Zealand.

Stokes will end his England career after the conclusion of the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, with the announcement made during the afternoon session on the fourth day of the series decider.

Richard Thompson, ECB chair, said: "Ben Stokes leaves the international game as one of England's greatest ever cricketers and one of the defining figures of his generation.

England vs New Zealand LIVE! Reaction as Stokes confirms retirement

Q&A: Everything you need to know about Stokes, Atkinson controversy

Got Sky? Watch England vs NZ live on the Sky Sports app

Not got Sky? Get instant access with NOW - no contract

"His performances under pressure, his relentless competitiveness and his ability to produce the extraordinary when it matters most have given me and millions of other fans memories that will endure forever.

"Whether inspiring victory in the biggest moments - not least driving England to World Cup wins in 2019 and 2022 and his heroic Ashes innings at Headingley - or leading the Test team with courage and conviction, Ben has been a talismanic figure in English cricket.

"Beyond his remarkable achievements on the field, his performances have inspired many youngsters to embrace cricket with positivity and belief. We are losing a batsman, a bowler, a captain and a talisman.

"On behalf of the ECB, I want to thank Ben for everything he has given to our sport and wish him and his family every success and happiness for the future."

Also See:

England cricket news and views

Follow Sky Sports on WhatsApp

Sky Sports Cricket Podcast

Stream cricket without a contract

More to follow...

This is a breaking news story that is being updated and more details will be published shortly. Please refresh this page for the latest updates.

Sky Sports brings you live updates as they happen. Get breaking sports news, analysis, exclusive interviews, replays and highlights.

Sky Sports is your trusted source for breaking sports news headlines and live updates. Watch live coverage of your favourite sports: Football, F1, Boxing, Cricket, Golf, Tennis, Rugby League, Rugby Union, NFL, Darts, Netball and get the latest transfers news, results, scores and more.

Visit skysports.com or the Sky Sports App for all the breaking sports news headlines. You can receive push notifications from the Sky Sports app for the latest news from your favourite sports, you can follow @SkySportsNews on X to get the latest updates and you can also now follow Sky Sports' WhatsApp channel.