Fleming rules out Stokes comeback for Ashes, respects retirement decision

Ben Stokes announced his retirement from England Test cricket in June 2026 after stepping down as captain during the series loss to New Zealand at Trent Bridge. The 35-year-old all-rounder has since continued playing county cricket for Durham and signed to play in Australia's Big Bash League with Adelaide Strikers. His departure marked the end of a four-year spell leading England's Test side.

Stephen Fleming, appointed as England's Test coach in July 2026, met with Stokes at Durham soon after arriving in England. Fleming has previously worked with the all-rounder at Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League and maintains a strong professional relationship with him.

"I went up to Durham and spoke to Ben, which was good. He's really happy and seemed to be really at peace with his decision. I've worked with Ben quite a bit. We've got a really good relationship. He seems really happy and comfortable with what he's doing," Fleming told reporters.

Fleming has been emphatic that he will not attempt to persuade Stokes to reverse his retirement decision. The coach acknowledged the personal toll that international cricket at the highest level demands, particularly for a player who has carried the burden of captaincy. His stance reflects an understanding of the mental and physical commitment required to compete at Test level.

"I respect his decision too much. To try to turn that around and question that is wrong. I know how much goes into that type of decision, and I respect that," he was quoted as saying by Sportstar.

Fleming has also spoken with his predecessor Brendon McCullum at Old Trafford, where the two men remain close friends and business partners. McCullum was removed from the Test coaching role but continues to oversee England's white-ball teams. The pair's relationship allows them to maintain open communication about the direction of English cricket.

"It's nice to be in a position to work with him, it's been a while," Fleming noted.

"It is an advantage that we will be able to talk fairly openly and be robust. We don't have to spend time getting to know each other as coaches."

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Fleming has assessed England's recent performances and believes the team can achieve greater success. The coach witnessed England complete a T20 series victory over Sri Lanka in Manchester. However, he has highlighted that England's record in major tournaments requires attention. The team has never reached any of the three World Test Championship finals and faces challenges in qualifying for next year's showpiece event at the Oval.