Ben Stokes' 15-year international career concluded with defeat as New Zealand secured a 2-1 series victory over England. The third Test at Trent Bridge ended in a 160-run loss for England, who collapsed to 212 all out in their second innings. Stokes, who led England for four years, announced this match would be his last before the game even began, making his farewell far from the celebratory send-off his achievements warranted.

England's batting lineup crumbled from the opening day of the final session, losing 103-4 by the close on Sunday. The innings imploded further on Monday morning when Joe Root was run out via an extraordinary direct hit from Henry Nicholls, followed by Jamie Smith's dismissal to a spectacular throw from Mitchell Santner. Smith managed only his second half-century in 11 months, while the bowling attack struggled throughout a series where England managed just seven wins in nine Tests.

The defeat extends England's barren run without a series victory dating back to 2024, leaving them without a captain for their next Test against Pakistan. Stokes' departure removes an irreplaceable all-rounder whose leadership saw England rise in Test rankings, yet this was anything but a fitting finale. New Zealand, missing several injured players themselves, delivered a disciplined performance that showcased superior fielding and batting depth across the series.