Ben Stokes marked his return to competitive cricket with an unbeaten century, guiding Durham to a five-wicket victory over Derbyshire in their opening match of the Metro Bank One Day Cup on July 22. This was Stokes’s first 50-over appearance since retiring from international cricket just over three weeks earlier, and his first List A match for Durham since 2014.

The 35-year-old former England captain opened the bowling with nine economical overs, conceding 38 runs without taking a wicket as Derbyshire posted 256 for nine. When Stokes came to the crease, Durham was in early trouble at 24 for two. Battling cramp and hamstring discomfort for much of his innings, Stokes displayed characteristic resilience, gradually accelerating his scoring with a sequence of boundaries and sixes. He reached his half-century off 71 balls before briefly collapsing in pain due to cramp.

Despite physical struggles that forced him to hobble between deliveries, Stokes maintained a steady tempo and strong shot selection. He brought up his century off 116 balls with a single to deep midwicket and partnered with captain Kasey Aldridge to secure the win with five balls remaining. His innings included 10 fours and three sixes.

Stokes’s return provided a boost for Durham and the One Day Cup, a tournament often overshadowed by the concurrent Hundred competition. Stokes had opted out of participating in the Hundred, citing a desire to move away from the format and discontent with the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) approach. His absence was notable given his popularity and the tournament’s recent efforts to attract wider audiences.

Observers noted that Stokes’s appearance for Durham resonated with fans nostalgic for his dynamic playing style and commitment, even as he stepped back from international duties. His decision to play county cricket rather than franchise tournaments was seen by some as a statement regarding his current priorities and a return to cricket’s traditional roots.

Durham wicketkeeper Ollie Robinson praised Stokes’s performance, describing it as a significant morale boost for the squad and highlighting the calming presence he brings to the team. Stokes had previously remarked that rejoining his boyhood club rekindled his “affection towards cricket” following his departure from the England fold amid an investigation into an off-field incident.

The match attracted a modest but appreciative crowd at Derby’s OurCoop County Ground, underscoring both the grassroots appeal of the One Day Cup and Stokes’s enduring drawing power. As Durham continue their domestic campaign, the impact of Stokes’s return, both on and off the field, will be closely watched.

Meanwhile, England face concerns over the fitness of Birmingham Phoenix captain and batter Jacob Bethell, who has been ruled out of the Hundred with a knee injury ahead of England’s Test series against Pakistan starting on August 19 at Headingley.