Ben Stokes’ unexpected retirement: Michael Vaughan claims ‘clash with ECB’ played key role Cricket News

Ben Stokes’ shock retirement from international cricket in the third Test against New Zealand continues to dominate headlines, with former England captain Michael Vaughan suggesting a breakdown in trust between Stokes and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) may have played a big role in the all-rounder’s decision.Stokes has not spoken publicly since announcing his decision midway through day four of England’s series decider at Trent Bridge, but he told shocked team-mates there was “reason to wait” in an emotional dressing room speech before the match.Speaking to the BBC’s Test Match Special, Vaughan said he felt Stokes had lost faith in those around him, including the ECB.“I’m just thinking about the past two weeks,” Vaughn said. “When you captain England you have to trust the people you work with. You have to trust everyone around you, the management, the ECB. “The former England captain stressed he was not saying the reported fallout was the sole reason for Stokes’ retirement, but he believed it was one of several contributing factors.“Honestly, I think there’s a lack of trust and that triggers you. I’m not saying that’s going to be the only reason Ben Stokes goes down, but all these things, it’s been a tough winter, there have been incidents on and off the field.”Warne also pointed out Stokes’ demeanor before the start of the match at Lord’s, suggesting the all-rounder didn’t look like his usual self. “Even in the first Test at Lord’s, he didn’t look quite right. He’s not the same Ben Stokes he was a few years ago. Then events happened and he’s obviously had a disagreement with the ECB over the last week or so. It’s probably a bit of trust he’s lost in them,” Warne added.

A look at Ben Stokes’ international career

One of England’s greatest all-rounders, Ben Stokes ends a remarkable 15-year international career. In 122 Tests, he scored 7,243 runs at an average of 34.49, including 14 centuries and a career-high 258 runs, while also taking 252 wickets. In 114 one-day internationals, Stokes amassed 3,463 runs with five centuries at an average of 41.23 and took 74 wickets, playing a key role in England’s 2019 Cricket World Cup victory. He also played 43 T20 internationals for England, scoring 585 runs and taking 26 wickets, including an unbeaten 52 in the 2022 T20 World Cup final to seal another ICC title.