England’s new Test coach, Stephen Fleming, has ruled out trying to bring Ben Stokes back for the Ashes, saying he respects the all-rounder’s decision to retire from Test cricket.
Stokes announced his Test retirement in June 2026, after stepping down as captain during England’s series defeat to New Zealand at Trent Bridge. The 35-year-old has since carried on in county cricket with Durham and is due to play for Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League.
A conversation in Durham
Fleming took over in July 2026 and travelled to Durham to meet Stokes soon afterwards. The two know each other well from their time together at Chennai Super Kings in the IPL.
Fleming said Stokes seemed happy and at peace with his choice. He added that he respects the decision too much to question it or try to reverse it, knowing how much thought goes into such a move.
Working with McCullum
Fleming has also met his predecessor, Brendon McCullum, at Old Trafford. McCullum no longer leads the Test side but still oversees England’s white-ball programmes. Fleming said their friendship means the two can speak frankly without first having to get to know each other.
The task ahead
As he settles in, Fleming has been reviewing England’s recent results and the challenges in front of them, noting that England have yet to reach a World Test Championship final. His focus now is on building the Test team for the next phase of the cycle, while Stokes continues his career outside England’s Test set-up.
