Stokes bids farewell to fans after ‘mad 15 years’

Ben Stokes posted one last farewell to international cricket on Friday, thanking fans and team-mates alike for a “mad 15 years”.

The 35-year-old former England captain retired in extraordinary fashion during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, making his exit public on the fourth afternoon and promptly taking a wicket next ball.

His last match as an England international capped a rollercoaster few weeks for the celebrated all-rounder that started with a morale-boosting win in the first Test at Lord’s, only for Stokes to miss New Zealand’s thumping win at the Oval for breaking a team midnight curfew at a London nightclub.

He returned for one last stand in Nottingham after receiving an official conduct warning, with his departure a chaotic affair that ended with Stokes being promoted to open the batting as England suffered a mammoth 160-run defeat that gave New Zealand a deserved 2-1 series-win.

His exit was a frantic affair, concluding with his promotion to open the batting in his final Test innings and a thumping 160-run defeat to New Zealand.

Stokes, posting on X after a couple of days away with his family, thanked colleagues and supporters for their backing.

“It’s been a mad 15 years,” he wrote. “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 every single England fan and every single cricket fan who’s supported me over the years.

“I love every single person I’ve walked out onto the field with representing England.”

Stokes, who intends to continue his career with county side Durham, added: “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 yas (sic) all.”

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