Former England captain Ben Stokes is ready to make his long awaited return to domestic cricket when he plays for Durham against Derbyshire in the opening round of the One Day Cup on Tuesday.
The match will be Stokes’ first appearance since announcing his retirement from international cricket last month. His return also comes on the same day the new season of The Hundred begins.
Stokes Excited to Play for Durham Again
Stokes shocked the cricket world when he stepped away from international cricket during England’s Test series against New Zealand. Before that announcement, he also missed one Test match while an investigation into an incident at a London nightclub took place.
During his time away from the England team, Stokes returned to Durham and featured in a County Championship match against Northamptonshire. That experience helped him reconnect with the game he has loved since childhood.
The 35 year old admitted that he had lost the enjoyment of representing England. However, playing for Durham reminded him why he enjoys cricket.
Stokes said returning to his boyhood county has given him fresh energy. Although leaving international cricket was an emotional decision, he believes it was the right choice for both his career and personal happiness.
One Day Cup Marks a Special Return
The upcoming fixture at Derbyshire will be Stokes’ first domestic 50 over match for Durham in 12 years.
His previous One Day Cup appearance for the county came in the 2014 final against Warwickshire. Earlier in that tournament, he produced one of the finest innings of his career by scoring 164 runs in the semi final against Nottinghamshire.
Stokes last played a domestic 50 over match in 2017 while representing Canterbury in New Zealand.
He has not appeared in any 50 over cricket since the 2023 World Cup, which also became his final limited overs match for England.
Return Comes as The Hundred Begins
Stokes chose not to enter this year’s Hundred draft because he had already planned to represent Durham in the One Day Cup.
His decision means supporters could see one of England’s biggest cricket stars playing at smaller county venues, including grounds in Gosforth, Darlington and York.
The latest season of The Hundred begins with major changes after investors purchased stakes in all eight franchises. The investment has introduced new team branding, updated identities and increased player earnings.
Possible County Championship Appearance
After completing his One Day Cup matches, Stokes may feature again for Durham in the County Championship before the season ends.
His return gives Durham an experienced all rounder while allowing fans to watch one of England’s most successful cricketers back where his professional journey began.
Meanwhile, England’s cricket setup has also changed since Stokes announced his retirement. Former Test coach Brendon McCullum has left his role and later revealed that Stokes had sent him supportive messages after the news became public.
