Ben Stokes. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
Tributes continue for Ben Stokes after his shock retirement from international cricket, with former India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan becoming the latest cricketer to laud the England cricketer’s remarkable career.Stokes announced his retirement during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, bringing the curtain down on an illustrious international journey. While England’s 160-run defeat and 2-1 series loss to New Zealand made for a disappointing farewell on the field, the occasion was marked by an outpouring of respect from teammates, rivals and former cricketers around the world.
Joining the chorus of tributes, Dhawan took to the X to pay tribute to Stokes for his ability to win matches and his lasting impact on the game.“Few players can change the course of a game like @benstokes38 did. A true competitor and one of the best players of this generation. Congratulations on an amazing career. 👏🏏”
After the match New Zealand captain Tom Latham congratulated Stock while Root gave him a speech in the dressing room. Tom Latham on Ben Stokes: “On behalf of the New Zealand Cricket Team, I would just like to congratulate you on a fantastic career.
You truly are a once-in-a-generation player. We’ve shared some tough battles over the years, and it was an honor to play against you. Congratulations on a great career, my friend. Enjoy your retirement.”Joe Root on playing alongside Stokes: “I’ve played cricket with and against Ben since we were 12. He taught me my first expletive the first time I played against him while he was skating with me. We’ve always gotten along well ever since.
It’s going to be a weird feeling when you walk into the locker room and don’t see him around. He has been a great colleague and friend throughout the journey.”
New Zealand wins the series
New Zealand concluded the series with a memorable victory at Trent Bridge, handing England their first Test series defeat at home in three or more matches in 14 years. However, the result was overshadowed by Stokes’ emotional farewell, as one of England’s greatest players bid farewell to international cricket after a career filled with memorable performances and iconic moments.
