'Family, friends, teammates, fans…' - Ben Stokes pens emotional farewell message after retiring from international cricket

A few days after announcing his retirement from international cricket, Ben Stokes shared an emotional farewell message on social media, reflecting on his remarkable journey with England and expressing gratitude to his teammates, fans, family, and everyone who supported him throughout his career.

Stokes brought the curtain down on an illustrious international career during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. The all-rounder announced his retirement while the match was still in progress and fittingly picked up his final international wicket shortly after making the announcement.

His final appearance ended in disappointment as England suffered a 160-run defeat, allowing New Zealand to clinch the Test and the series. Stokes watched the closing stages of the match from the dressing-room balcony after being dismissed in what proved to be his last innings in international cricket.

The 34-year-old's farewell came after a dramatic few weeks. He captained England to victory in the opening Test at Lord's before missing the second Test following an official conduct warning stemming from a night out in London. He returned for the series finale at Trent Bridge, where he promoted himself to open the batting in his final Test innings before England went on to lose the decider.

Taking to social media, Stokes looked back on the highs and lows of his career and thanked everyone who had been a part of his journey.

“It’s been a mad 15 years. It’s had everything thrown in there, from the highest highs to the lowest lows (on and off the field ). My time was up, and no one was going to be able to make that decision other than me. But in the meantime, I just want to say I love (heart emoji) every single England fan and every single cricket fan who’s supported me over the years. I love (heart emoji) every single person I’ve walked out onto the field with representing England. I could go on and on, but I hope you get the gist of how much I loved doing what I did for 15 years. I’m looking forward to being a fan and supporting the team, and the odd day in hospitality won’t go amiss. Family, friends, teammates, fans… I love (heart emoji)yas all. Stokesy,” he wrote.

Stokes finishes his international career as one of England's greatest all-rounders, having played a pivotal role in several memorable victories across formats.