Xtratime Web Desk: England Test captain Ben Stokes has announced his retirement from international cricket, revealing his decision to teammates midway through the ongoing third and final Test against New Zealand.

Ahead of play on Day 4 at Trent Bridge on Sunday, Stokes addressed the England dressing room, saying, "These are my final two days as England captain. This will also be my last international match in England colours." England Cricket later shared a video of the emotional announcement on its social media platforms.

With the three-match series level at 1-1 and the decider heading into the fifth and final day, Stokes' retirement announcement has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world.

Despite the emotional occasion, the England all-rounder displayed his trademark fighting spirit on the field. Just before the tea break, he claimed a crucial wicket, and as he walked off at the end of the session, the Trent Bridge crowd rose to its feet to applaud one of England's greatest modern cricketers.

Without elaborating on the reasons behind his decision, Stokes said, "I'll explain why I've made this decision later. I've always given everything I have for this team, and now I'll do it one last time."

The 35-year-old has represented England in international cricket for nearly 15 years. His defining career moment came in 2019 when he played a heroic all-round role in the dramatic ICC Cricket World Cup final against New Zealand at Lord's, helping England lift their maiden ODI World Cup title.

Stokes was also a key member of England's victorious ICC T20 World Cup squad in 2022. Later that year, he took over the Test captaincy and ushered in a new era of English cricket with his aggressive leadership and fearless approach to the game.

However, Stokes' farewell series has not been without controversy. Following the opening Test against New Zealand, he and teammate Gus Atkinson came under investigation after reportedly visiting a London nightclub. The incident allegedly involved an England security staff member being assaulted by a player from English rugby club Saracens.

In response, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) dropped Stokes and Atkinson for the second Test, stating that they had breached team contractual obligations. An independent investigation by the Cricket Regulator later found insufficient evidence to support any wrongdoing, leading to Stokes' return for the third Test.

Reacting to the retirement announcement, ECB Chairman Richard Thompson paid tribute to the England captain, saying:

"Ben Stokes is one of England's greatest-ever cricketers and one of the defining figures of his generation. His extraordinary performances in the biggest moments, relentless competitive spirit, and remarkable ability to achieve the impossible have given millions of cricket fans unforgettable memories."

He added:

"Beyond his achievements on the field, Ben has inspired countless young cricketers with his positive mindset and fearless approach to the game. England is losing a world-class batter, an effective bowler, a successful captain, and a true leader."

With Ben Stokes' retirement, English cricket bids farewell to one of its most influential figures. His exceptional leadership, unwavering determination, and match-winning performances have left an enduring legacy that will be remembered for generations.