Ben Stokes shock retirement: Michael Vaughan claims ‘fallout with ECB’ played a key role.

Ben Stokes’ shock exit from international cricket during the third Test against New Zealand continues to dominate the headlines, with former England captain Michael Vaughan suggesting that a breach of trust between Stokes and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) may have played a significant role in the all-rounder’s decision.Stokes has not spoken publicly since announcing his decision midway through day four of England’s series decider at Trent Bridge, but told his shocked team-mates before the match that “the reasons why can wait” in an emotional dressing room speech.Speaking on the BBC’s Test Match Special, Vaughan said he felt Stokes had lost faith in those around him, including the ECB.“I just think about the last two weeks,” Vaughan said. “When you’re England captain you have to trust those you work with. You have to trust everyone around you, the management, the ECB.”The former England captain stressed that he did not suggest the reported fallout was the sole reason for Stokes’ departure, but believed it was one of several contributing factors.“Honestly, I think there’s a lack of confidence and that triggers you. I’m not saying that’s going to be the only reason Ben Stokes has stepped down, but all these things, the winter was a hard winter, there were incidents on and off the field.Vaughan also pointed to Stokes’ demeanor ahead of the opening Test at Lord’s, suggesting the all-rounder was not looking his usual self. “Even in the wake of the first Test at Lord’s he didn’t look quite right. He wasn’t quite the Ben Stokes of a few years ago. Then there was the incident and he’s obviously fallen out with the ECB over the last week. That’s a bit of faith he’s probably lost in them,” Vaughan added.

A look at Ben Stokes’ international career

Ben Stokes has brought the curtain down on a remarkable 15-year international career as one of England’s greatest all-rounders. In 122 Tests, he scored 7,243 runs at an average of 34.49, including 14 centuries and a career-best 258, while also taking 252 wickets. In 114 One-Day Internationals, Stokes amassed 3,463 runs at an average of 41.23 with five centuries and took 74 wickets, playing a key role in England’s 2019 Cricket World Cup triumph. He also represented England in 43 T20 Internationals, scoring 585 runs and taking 26 wickets, including an unbeaten 52 in the 2022 T20 World Cup final that sealed another ICC title.