Former England all-format captain Ben Stokes has reaffirmed that his international playing career is over, though he remains open to returning to the England setup in a coaching role down the line.

Stokes' international career came to a controversial end following a 2–1 Test series defeat against New Zealand in June. He was dropped for disciplinary reasons after England's victory at Lord's, later admitting that four years at the helm had left him exhausted and that he did not have “any more fight left in me.”

Despite recent speculation—spurred by England Director of Men’s Cricket Rob Key stating last week that he “wouldn’t be surprised” by a comeback—Stokes clarified his stance. Having previously unretired from ODIs for the 2023 World Cup, the 35-year-old confirmed on the For the Love of Cricket podcast, hosted by former teammate Jos Buttler, that his retirement is permanent.

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Preparing for the Next Chapter

Instead of a playing comeback, Stokes is actively laying the groundwork for a transition to the coaching ranks.
“I’m doing my level three coaching now while I’m still playing, because when the day comes that I’m not playing anymore, I’d love to be able to have all that stuff signed off and done.”
“I know what I want to do in terms of staying within the game, which is to be a coach.”
“And would I love to be coach of England one day? Absolutely. I just really like the idea of being in some form of leadership away from playing,” Stokes said.

Root Takes the Reins Again

In the wake of Stokes' departure, Joe Root stepped in to lead the side after the Lord's Test against New Zealand and has since been officially reappointed as Test captain.

Root previously captained England between 2017 and 2022, securing a record 27 Test victories. However, that first stint ended during a tough stretch of just one win in 17 matches amidst the height of COVID-19 restrictions. At the time of stepping down, England’s record run-scorer acknowledged having a “very unhealthy relationship” with the captaincy, but he recently expressed renewed excitement about working alongside new head coach Stephen Fleming.

Stokes offered his full backing to his successor:
“I wish him nothing but success. I hope he goes on and achieves amazing things in his role as captain and I think he’s going to really enjoy it with Flem. He’s a great man.” (IANS)