NEW DELHI: India’s batting legend Sachin Tendulkar paid tribute to Ben Stokes after the England great announced his retirement from international cricket, praising his fearless approach, winning temperament and inspirational leadership in an emotional post on social media.Stokes has confirmed that the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge will be the final international appearance of his illustrious 15-year career, bringing the curtain down on one of the most influential careers in modern cricket.Reacting to the announcement, Tendulkar hailed Stokes for the energy and intensity he brought to every contest, while acknowledging the huge impact he had as an all-rounder and captain.“@benstokes38, I always admired the way you brought energy to the game. Your positivity, your fearless intent and the way you shaped moments under pressure stood out every time you came on,” Tendulkar wrote on Xu.The Indian legend described Stokes as one of England’s best all-rounders.“As an all-rounder, you were one of England’s best, and as captain, your bold tactics and instinctive reading of the game gave you a new edge.”Tendulkar concluded with a heartfelt farewell adding a touch of humor.“I wish you all the best for what’s next. Even though I know you, staying out of the middle might be the hardest part. Good luck in the next innings!”
Stokes signs off with no regrets
Stokes’ farewell, however, ended in disappointment as Tom Latham’s New Zealand completed a 160-run victory at Trent Bridge to seal the three-match series 2-1. It was the first Test series defeat at home in Stokes’ career as both a player and captain.Despite the result, the 35-year-old insisted he was completely at peace with his decision.“I’m done mate and I’m very happy,” Stokes told the BBC after the match.The English star admitted that the decision took months of thinking and talking with those closest to him.“I’m incredibly happy with everything right now. It’s a decision you don’t take lightly. It took a long time.”Stokes also admitted that a turbulent few weeks, including the disciplinary controversy following England’s victory at Lord’s, “may have” affected the timing of his retirement, but stressed that years of physical and mental demands eventually took their toll.“Over the last 6-12 months I think everything I’ve done over a long period of time has taken its toll,” he said.After captaining England through a transformative “Bazball” era and playing key roles in the country’s 2019 ODI World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup triumphs, Stokes leaves the international stage as one of England’s key cricketers.
