Joe Root Honors Ben Stokes' Remarkable Cricketing Journey

A Tribute to Ben Stokes

New Delhi, June 30: Joe Root, the former captain of England, has expressed heartfelt admiration for Ben Stokes, praising his exceptional ability to perform under pressure. He highlighted Stokes as a player who consistently delivers crucial moments when the stakes are high.

Stokes, a prominent figure in modern English cricket, has announced his retirement from international play following the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. This marks the end of a stellar 15-year career that commenced in 2011, during which he also served as England's Test captain for four years.

Few athletes have influenced England's success across various formats like Stokes. A true match-winner with both bat and ball, he has provided unforgettable performances, including his remarkable unbeaten 84 in the 2019 ODI World Cup final, which secured England's first world title.

Root reflected on their shared experiences, stating, "We've faced numerous challenges together, but what I admire most is your ability to take ownership of your journey. The saying goes that diamonds are formed under pressure, and you have consistently created memorable moments when the game was on the line. Your career will be remembered for these instances," as he spoke in a video released by the England and Wales Cricket Board.

He also reminisced about Stokes' iconic 135 not out at Headingley, which played a pivotal role in one of the most celebrated Ashes victories.

Root continued, "You have contributed countless memorable moments for this team across all formats, particularly in Test cricket. Generations will be inspired by your achievements. We are fortunate to have shared this journey and to have played alongside you during your remarkable career, which includes World Cup victories and unforgettable innings like that at Headingley in 2019."

In 2022, after Root stepped down as Test captain, Stokes took over the leadership of the red-ball team. Together with head coach Brendon McCullum, he introduced an aggressive playing style known as "Bazball," leading the team to 11 victories in his first 13 matches as captain.

Under their guidance, England rediscovered its competitive spirit, achieving significant series wins against New Zealand, South Africa, and Pakistan, while revitalizing interest in Test cricket.

Root concluded his tribute by looking forward to their lives post-cricket. "You have inspired many young players in this room, as they grew up watching you. It has been an incredible journey, and I cherish every moment spent playing alongside you. I look forward to the day when we can sit down as old veterans, reminiscing over a beer," he said. Stokes finished his Test career with 7,273 runs at an average of 34.46, including 14 centuries, and took 252 wickets at 30.98, with six five-wicket hauls in 122 Tests, including 44 as captain. In ODIs, he scored 3,463 runs and accumulated 585 runs in 43 T20Is.