Ben Stokes Returns to 50-Over Cricket with Durham After Retirement

Stokes Makes Comeback in 50-Over Format

Ben Stokes, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket, is poised to make his return to the 50-over format after a hiatus of nearly three years. He will play for Durham against Derbyshire in the Metro Bank Cup on July 21 at The OurCoop County Ground in Derby, according to reports.

Stokes' Transition from International to Domestic Cricket

Following England's 160-run defeat to New Zealand at Trent Bridge, Stokes concluded his international career. However, he will continue to participate in domestic cricket for Durham and is anticipated to be available for the remainder of the Metro Bank Cup and the County Championship season, contingent on his fitness.

Coach's Remarks on Stokes' Return

Ryan Campbell, the head coach of Durham, confirmed that Stokes has rejoined the team and is gearing up for upcoming matches. While the club plans to manage his workload carefully after a demanding period, Campbell expressed enthusiasm about having the former England star back in action. "He's now a retired Test superstar, but he's reported in for duty as a Durham cricketer. He's at training; he'll be preparing for all our games. Of course, we're always going to be mindful of loads - he's played a lot of cricket, so we've got to look after him - but at this stage, he's back, and we're excited to have him back," Campbell stated.

Stokes' Last International Match

Stokes' last Test match featured a brief yet impactful innings, where he opened the batting and scored 30 runs off just 20 balls before being dismissed. The match concluded with England suffering a 160-run defeat against New Zealand, led by Tom Latham, in the third Test at Trent Bridge, resulting in a 2-1 series loss for England. This match also marked Stokes' first home series defeat as both a player and captain.

Stokes' Impressive International Career

The all-rounder leaves behind a remarkable legacy in international cricket, highlighted by his pivotal role in England's 2019 ODI World Cup victory and memorable Test performances, including the iconic Ashes win at Headingley in 2019. Statistically, Stokes had a stellar international career across formats: in 114 ODIs, he amassed 3,463 runs at an average of 41.22, including five centuries and 24 fifties, while also claiming 74 wickets. In Test cricket, he played 122 matches, scoring 7,273 runs at an average of 34.46, with 14 centuries and 37 half-centuries, alongside taking 252 wickets. In T20Is, he scored 585 runs in 36 innings and took 26 wickets.