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Ben Stokes announces retirement as England Test captain during third Test

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 7:34 PM

Last updated Jun 28, 2026

Ben Stokes announces retirement as England Test captain during third Test
Summary

Ben Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket while playing in the third Test against New Zealand on June 28, 2026. The move was unexpected, especially with the series still in progress. Stokes, England's captain since 2022, had been under scrutiny due to off-field issues, including a nightclub incident. His departure raises questions about the future of the England cricket leadership. Stokes will continue to play county cricket for Durham and may participate in The Hundred and other leagues in the future.

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By the Numbers
  • •Stokes retired during the ongoing third Test against New Zealand.
  • •He has captained England since 2022, leading through several challenges.
  • •Stokes faced scrutiny over off-field incidents prior to his announcement.
  • •He plans to continue playing county cricket for Durham.
  • •Questions linger over the future of England's cricket leadership.
Latest Updates
  • 7:34 PMYahoo Sports — Unconventional exit for an English great - Agnew
  • 7:33 PMBBC Sport — Unconventional exit for an English great - Agnew
What they're saying
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Ben Stokes' shock retirement as England captain during the third Test against New Zealand was unconventional - just like the great player himself, says Jonathan Agnew.

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Ben Stokes' shock retirement as England captain during the third Test against New Zealand was unconventional - just like the great player himself, says Jonathan Agnew.

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