New Delhi: Indian batting legends Sachin Tendulkar Tributes have been paid to England great Ben Stokes in an emotional social media post after he announced his retirement from international cricket, praising his fearless attitude, match-winning temperament and inspirational leadership.Stokes confirmed that the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge will be the last 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 news, Tendulkar praised Stokes for the energy and intensity he displays in every game while acknowledging the huge impact he has made as an all-rounder and captain.“@benstokes38, I’ve always admired the way you bring energy to the game. Your positivity, your fearless intent, and the way you shape moments under pressure stand out every time you step onto the field,” Tendulkar wrote on X.The India legend went on to describe Stokes as one of England’s best all-rounders.“As an all-round player you are one of the best players in England and as captain your bold tactics and instinctive reading of the game have added a new edge to your team.”Tendulkar ended his speech with a heartfelt farewell, while adding a touch of humour.“I wish you all the best with your next one. Knowing you though, staying away from the middle is probably the hardest part. Good luck with your next one!”
Stokes retires with no regrets
However, Stokes’ farewell ended in disappointment as Tom Latham-led New Zealand registered a 160-run win at Trent Bridge to seal the three-match series 2-1. It was the first time in Stokes’ career as a player and captain that he had been beaten in a home Test series.Despite the outcome, the 35-year-old insists he is completely comfortable with his decision.“I’m done, man, I’m delighted,” Stokes told the BBC after the game.The England star admitted the decision came after months of thought and discussions with those closest to him.“I’m very happy with everything right now. It’s a decision that wasn’t taken lightly. It took a lot of time.”Stokes also admitted that a turbulent few weeks, including a disciplinary dispute following England’s win at Lord’s, “maybe” had affected the timing of his retirement, but stressed that years of physical and mental demands had ultimately taken their toll.“In the last six to 12 months, I think everything I’ve done over a long period of time has had an impact,” he said.Stokes, who captained England through the transformative ‘Bazball’ era and played a starring role in the country’s 2019 ODI World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup victories, has gone on to become one of England’s iconic cricketers after leaving the international stage.
