Ben Stokes to rejoin Durham for One-Day Cup after international retirement

Ben Stokes will return to competitive cricket next week when Durham opens its MetroBank One-Day Cup campaign against Derbyshire. The 35-year-old announced his retirement from international cricket a little over two weeks ago while bowling in a Test match at Trent Bridge. He took a wicket with his next delivery and later opened the batting in his final Test innings.

Return to county cricket Stokes confirmed he would continue playing for Durham after a short family break. He had already decided to skip The Hundred, which also begins next week, to focus on the 50-over competition. His last 50-over match for England came during the 2023 World Cup in India. Durham last won the One-Day Cup in 2014 and currently leads Division Two of the County Championship.

Coach comments Durham head coach Ryan Campbell told the Press Association earlier this season that he enjoys having Stokes in the dressing room.

“I really enjoy having him around. We’ve made it very clear, Stokesy is here as a member of our team and he’s here to help win games of cricket for Durham. We’re just happy to see one of our mates again." Campbell added that Stokes sets high standards and that his presence brings additional media attention to matches.”