Fleming says it would be wrong to ask Stokes to reverse retirement

Newly appointed England Test coach Stephen Fleming has stated it would be "wrong" to ask former captain Ben Stokes to reverse his international retirement ahead of next year's Ashes series. Fleming, who took charge of the role in July but only recently began his duties, met with Stokes at Durham shortly after arriving in England. "I went up to Durham and spoke to Ben, which was good. He's really happy and seemed to be really at peace with his decision," Fleming told reporters. "I've worked with Ben quite a bit. We've got a really good relationship... He seems really happy and comfortable with what he's doing." Fleming, a former New Zealand captain, emphasized his respect for Stokes' choice. "I respect his decision too much," he said. "To try to turn that around and question that is wrong. I know how much goes into that type of decision, and I respect that." Stokes, 35, announced his retirement from Test cricket in June 2026 after stepping down as captain during a series defeat to New Zealand at Trent Bridge. He has since continued playing for his county side Durham and has signed to play for the Adelaide Strikers in Australia's Big Bash League.