Ben Stokes reflects on Headingley innings as retirement nears
BBC Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 2:33 PM
Last updated Jun 28, 2026

Ben Stokes has announced his retirement from Test cricket, prompting a retrospective of his pivotal innings at Headingley during the 2019 Ashes. This performance, described by former captain Sir Alastair Cook as "the greatest innings ever played by an Englishman," played a significant role in England's victory over Australia that series. Stokes’ decision marks the end of a notable chapter in his cricket career, adding poignancy to reflections on his achievements. The cricket community continues to honor Stokes’ contributions to the sport.
- •Ben Stokes announces retirement from Test cricket.
- •Reflects on his iconic innings at Headingley in 2019.
- •Sir Alastair Cook calls it the greatest innings by an Englishman.
- •Stokes played a crucial role in England's Ashes victory.
- •His retirement marks the end of a significant career phase.
- 2:33 PMBBC Sport — Archive: Relive Stokes' Headingley innings to help England beat Australia
"As Ben Stokes announces his retirement from Test cricket, BBC Sport looks back at his match-winning innings at Headingley during the 2019 Ashes which former captain Sir Alastair Cook described as "the greatest innings ever played by an Englishman".
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