A few days after bringing down the curtain on his international career, Ben Stokes posted a farewell message on social media, thanking his teammates, supporters and everyone who was part of his journey during what he called “15 crazy years.”Stokes announced his retirement during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Moments after releasing an official statement, he claimed his last wicket for England.His international career ended in a 160-run defeat as New Zealand won the third Test and the series, with Stokes watching the closing stages from the balcony after being dismissed in their final innings.The end of his career came after a busy few weeks. Stokes led England to victory in the first Test at Lord’s, missed the second Test after a night in London resulting in an official conduct warning, and returned for a final match in Nottingham.He was also promoted to open the batting in his final Test innings before England lost the series decider.
Posting on X after spending a few days with his family, Stokes shared a personal message for those who have supported him throughout his career.“It’s been a crazy 15 years. He’s had everything thrown at him, from the highest to the lowest (on and off the field),” Stokes wrote in a post on X. “My time was up, and no one will be able to make that decision but me. But in the meantime, I just want to say that I love every England fan and every cricket fan who has supported me over the years.”“I love every person I went to the field with representing England. I can go on and on, but I hope you have the essence of how much I loved doing what I did for 15 years. I look forward to being a fan and supporting the team, and the odd day in hospitality will not go.“Family, friends, teammates, fans… I love yas all.”