Ben Stokes: England captain reveals 'tough' decisions behind international retirement and why it is 'best thing' for him

Ben Stokes insists retiring from international cricket is the “best thing” for him after sensationally confirming mid-match that England’s series decider with New Zealand would be his last.

The decision follows a turbulent start to the year for Stokes, who stayed on as captain despite a 4-1 Ashes thrashing in Australia but was dropped for his involvement in a nightclub incident after their first Test win over New Zealand.

Stokes played for Durham during the second Test but was recalled for this week's series decider, which will be his last international appearance after 122 Tests, 114 one-day internationals and 43 T20s.