Days after retiring, Ben Stokes marks new chapter with match-winning century

Ben Stokes (Image credit: X)

NEW DELHI: Just days after retiring from international cricket, Ben Stokes showed he still has plenty left in the tank. Playing his first match as a former England cricketer, Stokes scored an unbeaten 108 to guide Durham to a five-wicket win over Derbyshire in the One-Day Cup at Derby.The century came in Stokes’ first 50-over match for Durham in 12 years. Before his match-winning knock, he also bowled nine economical overs, finishing with figures of 0/38.

Stokes battles cramp

Chasing 257, Durham were in trouble at 98/3 before Stokes anchored the innings with an unbeaten 108 off 123 balls. His knock included 10 fours and three sixes as Durham reached 257/5 in 49.1 overs, winning with five balls to spare.Despite struggling with cramp for much of his innings, Stokes stayed till the end to complete his century and take Durham home.Kasey Aldridge remained unbeaten on 23, while Will Rhodes scored 45 and Colin Ackermann added 28.Earlier, Derbyshire posted 256/9 in 50 overs. Martin Andersson top-scored with 112, while Brooke Guest made 48. Luke Robinson was Durham’s best bowler with 3/44.

Emotional farewell

A few days before his century, Stokes had announced his retirement from international cricket following England’s third Test against New Zealand. Soon after, he shared an emotional message on X, thanking everyone who had been part of his journey.“It’s been a mad 15 years. It’s had everything thrown in there, from the highest highs to the lowest lows (on and off the field). My time was up, and no one was going to be able to make that decision other than me. But in the meantime, I just want to say I love every single England fan and every single cricket fan who’s supported me over the years,” Stokes wrote.He also thanked his teammates and everyone who supported him throughout his career.“I love every single person I’ve walked out onto the field with representing England. I could go on and on, but I hope you get the gist of how much I loved doing what I did for 15 years. I’m looking forward to being a fan and supporting the team, and the odd day in hospitality won’t go amiss. Family, friends, teammates, fans…I love y’all. Stokesy,” he added.

Stokes finished his international career with 122 Tests, including 44 as captain, scoring more than 7,000 runs and taking over 200 wickets. He also represented England in 114 ODIs and 43 T20Is.