LONDON: Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes a reported breakdown in trust between Ben Stokes and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) may have played a part in the all-rounder’s surprise retirement from international cricket.
Stokes announced his decision during the fourth day of England’s third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, ending a remarkable 15-year international career. The England captain has not spoken publicly since making the announcement. However, he reportedly told his team-mates before play that the reasons behind his decision “can wait” during an emotional speech in the dressing room.
Speaking on the BBC’s Test Match Special, Vaughan said trust is essential for any England captain and suggested Stokes no longer had full confidence in those around him, including the ECB.
“When you’re England captain, you’ve got to trust those that you’re working with. You have to trust everyone around you, the management, the ECB,” Vaughan said.
Vaughan said the reported disagreement with the ECB was unlikely to be the only reason for Stokes’ retirement. He pointed to a difficult winter and several off-field issues that may also have influenced the decision.
Stokes finishes his international career as one of England’s greatest all-rounders. He played 122 Tests, scoring 7,243 runs and taking 252 wickets. He also helped England win the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup and played a key role in the team’s 2022 T20 World Cup triumph.
