Ben Stokes has announced his retirement from international cricket, midway through England's third Test against New Zealand.
Stokes informed the team of his decision on the morning of the fourth days play at Trent Bridge before the ECB issued a short statement at 15:35 BST; Stokes was bowling at the time.
In a moment that rather encapsulated his glittering England career, Stokes took the wicket of Zak Foulkes just minutes after news filtered to the Trent Bridge crowd regarding his decision.
During Sky Sports' commentary of the third Test, former England batter Michael Atherton described the decision as "stunning" whilst Stuart Broad labelled him a "talisman".
For the guts of 15 years the 35-year-old has performed with distinction for England, providing countless unforgettable moments.
Earlier this week, Stokes became just the second-ever player to score 7,000 runs and take 250 wickets in Test cricket, alongside legendary South African Jacques Kallis.
But, for many, he will be remembered for the, at times, herculean individual performances he provided and not just his brilliant numbers.
Although there have been countless days where Stokes has shone brightest on the biggest stage, his heroic 135* in pursuit of a record 359 during the 2019 Ashes series against Australia at Headingley will stick long in the memory.
Stokes was also central to England's maiden ICC Cricket World Cup victory in that very same year, being named man on the match during the final against New Zealand where he blasted a crucial 84*.
Alongside a video of Stokes announcing his retirement to his England teammates and backroom staff, the ECB posted on X saying: "One of England's all-time greatest captains, Ben Stokes, has decided to retire from international cricket at the end of this Test match.
"Ben, you have been the most inspirational captain, leader and legend this team could have ever hoped for.
"We love you so much and wish you all the best in your retirement.
"England will never be the same again."
Stokes has 56% win rate as England Test captain -- better than any other skipper for the last 45 years -- overseeing one of the most transformative and enjoyable periods in England's long cricketing history.
The all-rounder has represented England in five different Ashes series and was part of the side that won the T20 World Cup in 2022, adding to the ODI lifted that he landed three years prior.
