Ben Stokes retirement from international cricket marked the end of one of his most remarkable careers of England history of cricket. As tributes poured in from across the cricketing world, one message stood out for its emotionality and authenticity. Former England captain Joe RootSharing the dressing room with Stokes for more than a decade, the all-rounder offered a heartfelt tribute that perfectly captures his extraordinary impact on English cricket.
Joe Root’s heartfelt message for Ben Stokes goes viral
He soon announced his retirement after the third Test against Stokes New Zealand At Trent Bridge, the ECB released a special commemorative video featuring heartfelt messages from England teammates. In the video, Root praised Stokes for always taking charge in the toughest of situations and delivering memorable match-winning performances under immense pressure.
“We’ve been through a lot as two players, but one thing I’ve always admired about you is that no matter what, you’ve always been yourself. You can only create diamonds under pressure. When the game is in the balance, there are many players who can create moments like you. Every minute was hell walking with you, my friend, I love you so much.” I look forward to being able to share my journey with you and someday we’ll sit down and drink beer as dusty old veterans as a coaching staff.” Root said.
We present the video:
From one England legend to another, goodbye ❤️ pic.twitter.com/XYFX9IRdCK
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 29, 2026
Harry Brooke recalls Stokes’ unforgettable Headingley heroics
England captain Harry Brooke also paid an emotional tribute highlighting how Stokes inspired generations of cricketers with his performances across all formats. Brook described his iconic unbeaten 135 at Headingley during the 2019 Ashes as one of the defining moments of modern Test cricket, describing it as an innings to remember for generations.
He also praised the former captain’s contributions to England’s World Cup triumphs, Ashes campaigns and numerous match-winning performances, adding that anyone who shares a dressing room with Stokes is lucky to witness one of the game’s greatest rivals up close.
Also WATCH: Tom Latham pays heartfelt tribute to Ben Stokes after England star’s retirement
Ben Stokes leaves an unforgettable legacy
Stokes brought down the curtain on a brilliant 15-year international career that began in 2011. Regarded as one of Great Britain’s greatest all-rounders, he produced several remarkable performances, including an unforgettable unbeaten 84. 2019 ODI World Cup The final that took England to their first world title.
With Stokes as the head coach after taking over the Test captaincy in 2022 following Root’s resignation Brendon McCullumchanged England’s approach to red ball cricket with his aggressive ‘Bazball’ philosophy. Memorable series victories over England were recorded under his leadership New Zealand, South Africa and Pakistan While restoring excitement to Test cricket.
Stokes retired with an outstanding international record. In 122 Tests, he scored 7,273 runs at an average of 34.46, including 14 centuries, while also claiming 252 wickets with six five-wicket hauls. He also represented England in 114 ODIs, scoring 3,463 runs and appearing in 43 T20Is, adding another 585 runs to his impressive international haul.
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