Ben Stokes is unlikely to return to international cricket for the next Ashes series, according to England’s new red-ball coach Stephen Fleming. Stokes announced his retirement from Test cricket earlier this summer after serving as England’s captain for four years. Since stepping away from international duties, Stokes has continued to play for Durham, contributing to their Division Two title victory.

Fleming, who recently visited Durham to speak with Stokes, described the player as content and at peace with his decision to retire. “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 said. The coach noted that Stokes had just bowled 20 overs successfully for Durham, indicating his ongoing commitment to county cricket.

Having worked closely with Stokes in the past, Fleming emphasized the respect he holds for the player’s choice to retire. “He seems really happy and comfortable with what he’s doing,” Fleming said. “My view is when a player decides to retire it’s a big decision and I have the utmost respect for that decision so that’s where it sits.”

While Stokes’ absence leaves a significant gap in England’s Test lineup, his decision appears firm, diminishing expectations that he might reverse his retirement to participate in the upcoming Ashes series. The 2027 Ashes, scheduled to be played in Australia, will therefore proceed without one of England’s most influential cricketers of the past decade.