England’s captain Ben Stokes announced on the fourth day of the Trent Bridge Test that he will retire from international cricket after the match ends on Monday. The 35‑year‑old will finish a 15‑year career comprising 122 Tests, 114 ODIs and 43 T20s. He called the decision “the best thing” for his wellbeing, his family and to preserve his passion.

Stokes rejected speculation that the recent nightclub incident or his omission from the second Test prompted the retirement. He revealed he had been contemplating leaving since England’s 4‑1 Ashes loss in Australia and felt the Lord’s Test revived negative emotions. The all‑rounder said he burned out after trying to “put things right” post‑tour, adding that stepping away may prolong his enjoyment of cricket at any level.

While Stokes will continue playing for his boyhood county Durham, he described the county stint as a “new lease of life” that reminded him why he loves the game. He told teammates Joe Root and Harry Brook of his decision on Saturday and shared mixed emotions of relief, excitement and sadness as the final innings approached, for England once.