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Stokes set for first game since England retirement
Ben Stokes is set to play his first match since retiring from international cricket, turning out for Durham in the One-Day Cup against Derbyshire on Tuesday. His return matters because it marks the next step in his career after a sudden England exit and shows how county cricket has become central to his future in the game. It also places one of England’s biggest cricket figures back in the domestic spotlight just as the new season of The Hundred begins.
Stokes, 35, retired during England’s third Test against New Zealand last month after saying he had developed “negative feelings” about playing for England, though he said time back with Durham had revived his enjoyment of cricket. He has already appeared for Durham in the County Championship and could play again in that competition later this season, but Tuesday’s match will be his first domestic 50-over game for Durham in 12 years and his first 50-over match of any kind since the 2023 World Cup. His return also comes amid wider change in English cricket, with the relaunched Hundred starting the same day after investors bought stakes in its eight franchises for about £520m.
In short
- Ben Stokes is due to return for Durham on Tuesday.
- It will be his first game since retiring from England duty.
- His comeback coincides with the launch of the new Hundred season.
Explained simply
Ben Stokes is one of England's greatest cricketers of the past decade. The 35-year-old has been a vital player for the England team through a combination of powerful batting and bowling. His performances and choices have been central to how English cricket has developed in recent years.
Stokes stepped away from playing for England last month during a Test match against New Zealand, saying he had developed "negative feelings" about the role. His sudden departure was unexpected given his status and raised questions about the pressure placed on top athletes in international sport. However, he has since said that playing for his county side, Durham, has rekindled his love of cricket.
His move back into county-level cricket marks a significant turning point in his career. After more than a decade absent from this particular format, his involvement signals that domestic cricket is now crucial to his future in the game. This shift also coincides with major changes in English cricket, including substantial investment in its domestic structure.