A few days after bringing down the curtain on his international career, Ben Stokes posted a farewell message on social media, thanking his teammates, supporters and everyone who was part of his journey during what he called a “mad 15 years”.Stokes announced his retirement during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Moments after issuing an official statement, he claimed his final wicket for England.His international career ended in a 160-run defeat as New Zealand won the third Test and the series, with Stokes watching the closing stages from the balcony after being dismissed in his final innings.The end of his career came after a busy few weeks. Stokes led England to victory in the first Test at Lord’s, missed the second Test after a night out in London that resulted in an official conduct warning, and returned for one final match in Nottingham.He also promoted himself to open the batting in his last Test innings before England lost the series decider.

Posting on X after spending a few days with his family, Stokes shared a personal message for those who had supported him throughout his career.“It’s been a mad 15 years. It’s had everything thrown in there, from the highest highs to the lowest lows (on and off the field),” Stokes wrote in a post on X. “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. 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 all.”