Vaughan says England must replace Stokes’ persona after shock retirement

Ben Stokes, 35, confirmed on June 28, 2026 that the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge would be his final appearance for England. Michael Vaughan said England face a far larger rebuilding job than finding Stokes’ overs and middle-order runs, arguing they must replace Stokes’ "persona" and winning mentality as much as his cricket, with the former captain saying Stokes has been one of England’s greatest players in pressure moments.

The decision brought a 15-year international career, which began in 2011, to a close and followed four years as Test captain after he took over in 2022. He told the squad in an emotional dressing-room speech before play and later said these would be his final two days as England captain, asking teammates to give everything for the rest of the match.

Under Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum, England entered the attacking Bazball era, and Stokes’ record as captain was 24 wins from 42 Tests. His key innings included the unbeaten 84 that helped deliver the 2019 ODI World Cup and the unbeaten 135 at Headingley in the 2019 Ashes.

Vaughan had already made clear earlier in June that he still saw Stokes as indispensable, saying it would be an "absolute travesty" if he were stripped of the captaincy. Vaughan said Stokes had enough "credit in the bank" to continue and praised his tactical awareness. Richard Thompson, the ECB chairman, called Stokes one of England’s greatest ever cricketers and one of the defining figures of his generation.

Stokes missed the second Test at The Oval after a midnight curfew breach and a nightclub incident in London, with Joe Root stepping in during his absence. Harry Brook has already been mentioned as a possible successor.