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Ben Stokes responds to Ian Botham's retirement comments

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 15, 2026, 10:52 PM

Last updated Jul 15, 2026

Ben Stokes responds to Ian Botham's retirement comments

Summary

Ben Stokes humorously reacted to Ian Botham's remarks about his retirement, which was announced during the recent Test against New Zealand. Botham joked that Stokes had joined the ranks of 'has-beens' in cricket. Stokes responded on social media by referencing a quote attributed to Botham, highlighting the light-hearted nature of the exchange. This comment follows Botham's criticism of Stokes for breaching team curfew during post-match celebrations. Stokes' retirement caps a 15-year international career marked by significant achievements.

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By the Numbers

•Stokes announced his retirement during a Test against New Zealand.
•Botham made a joking remark about Stokes becoming a 'has-been.'
•Stokes referenced a Botham quote in his social media response.
•Botham criticized Stokes for breaching team curfew.
•Stokes had a 15-year international career with over 250 appearances.

Latest Updates

10:52 PMYahoo Sports — 'Better to be a has-been than a never-been': Ben Stokes fires back at Ian Botham

What they're saying

"
Ben Stokes humorously responded to Ian Botham's retirement comments on social media. Botham had playfully inducted Stokes into a club of former players. Stokes referenced a quote often attributed to Botham himself. This exchange followed Botham's earlier criticism of Stokes' curfew breach. Stokes retired after a distinguished 15-year international cricket career.
— Yahoo Sports

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