Former England captain Ben Stokes has ruled out making a comeback to international cricket but admitted he hopes to coach England in the future.
Stokes retired after England’s 2-1 Test series defeat to New Zealand, saying his four-year stint as captain had left him exhausted. Despite England managing director Rob Key hinting at a possible return, the 35-year-old insisted he is “definitely” finished with Test cricket. Stokes revealed he is completing his Level Three coaching qualification to prepare for life after retirement.
He also backed Harry Brook for the England Test captaincy, expressing surprise that vice-captain Brook was overlooked after Stokes stepped down, with Joe Root instead returning as England’s Test skipper.