Days after retirement, Ben Stokes introduces a new chapter in a match-winning century

Ben Stokes (Image credit: X) NEW DELHI: Just days after retiring from international cricket, Ben Stokes has shown that he still has a lot left in the tank. Playing his first match as a former England cricketer, Stokes scored an unbeaten 108 to lead Durham to a five-wicket win over Derbyshire in the One-Day Cup at Derby.Stokes came up with a first match 50-over for Durham in 12 years. He also bowled nine economical overs before his match-winning knock, finishing with figures of 0/38.

Stokes is struggling with cramps

Chasing 257, Durham were struggling 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 most of his innings, Stokes stayed on 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 top bowler with 3/44.

An emotional farewell

Days before his century, Stokes announced his retirement from international cricket after England’s third Test against New Zealand. Soon after, he shared an emotional message on X, thanking everyone who was a part of his journey.“It’s been a crazy 15 years. There’s been everything from the highest highs to the lowest lows (on and off the field). My time is up and nobody but me was in a position to make that decision. But in the meantime, I just want to say that I love every England fan and every cricket fan who has supported me over the years,” Stokes.He also thanked his teammates and everyone who supported him throughout his career.“I love every person I’ve walked on the pitch with for England. I could go on and on but I hope you understand how much I’ve loved doing what I’ve done for 15 years. I’m looking forward to being a fan and supporting the team and a special day in hospitality wouldn’t go amiss. Family, friends, team-mates, fans… I love you all,” Stokes added.Stokes finished his international career with 122 Tests, including 44 as captain, scoring over 7,000 runs and taking over 200 wickets. He also represented England in 114 ODIs and 43 T20Is.