‘Staying away from the middle will be the hardest’: Sachin Tendulkar’s emotional message to Ben Stokes after retirement

File Pic: Sachin Tendulkar, right, and Ben Stokes at Wimbledon. (Photo by AP/PTI) NEW DELHI: Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar paid tribute to Ben Stokes after the England great announced his retirement from international cricket, praising his fearless approach, spirited matches and inspirational leadership in an emotional post on social media.Stokes has confirmed that the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge will be the final international appearance of his illustrious 15-year career, bringing the curtain down on one of the most influential careers in modern cricket.Reacting to the announcement, Tendulkar praised Stokes for the energy and intensity he brought to every contest, while also acknowledging the huge impact he had as an all-rounder and captain. “@benstokes38 I always admired the way you brought energy to the game. Your positivity, your fearless intent and the way you shaped moments under pressure stood out every time you walked in,” Tendulkar wrote on X.Indian legend went on to describe Stokes as one of England’s finest all-rounders.“As an all-rounder you were one of England’s best and as captain your bold tactics and instinctive reading of the game added a new edge to your side.”Tendulkar concluded with a heartfelt farewell with a touch of humor.“I wish you all the best for what comes next. Even knowing you, staying away from the center can be the hardest part. Good luck for the next innings!”

Stokes leaves with no regrets

But Stokes’ farewell ended in disappointment as Tom Latham’s New Zealand completed a 160 at Trent Bridge to seal the three-match series 2-1. It was the first Test series defeat at home in Stokes’ career as both player and captain.Despite the result, the 35-year-old insisted he was completely at peace with his decision.“I’m done mate and I’m very happy,” Stokes told the BBC after the match.The England star admitted that the decision took months of thought and discussion with those closest to him.“I’m incredibly happy with everything right now. It’s a decision you don’t take lightly. It took a lot of time.”Stokes also acknowledged that a tumultuous few weeks, including disciplinary disputes after England’s victory at Lord’s, “may have” affected the timing of his retirement, but stressed that years of physical and mental demands had finally taken their toll.“I think in the last 6-12 months everything I’ve done for a long time has taken its toll,” he said.After captaining England in a transformative era of ‘baseball’ and playing major roles in the country’s triumphs at the 2019 ODI World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup, Stokes leaves the international stage as one of England’s defining cricketers.