Ben Stokes' shock retirement: Michael Vaughan claims 'fallout with the ECB' played a key role
Ben Stokes' shock retirement from international cricket during the third Test against New Zealand continues to dominate headlines, with former England captain Michael Vaughan suggesting that a breakdown in trust between Stokes and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) may have played a significant role in the all-rounder's decision.
Stokes has not spoken publicly since announcing his decision midway through the fourth day of England's series decider at Trent Bridge, but told his shocked team-mates before play that "reasons why can wait" in an emotional dressing-room speech.
Speaking on the BBC's Test Match Special, Vaughan said he felt Stokes had lost confidence in the people around him, including the ECB.
"I just think about the last two weeks," Vaughan said. "When you're England captain, you've got to trust those that you're working with. You have to trust everyone around you, the management, the ECB."
The former England skipper stressed that he was not claiming the reported fallout was the sole reason behind Stokes' retirement, but believed it was one of several contributing factors.
Stokes has not spoken publicly since announcing his decision midway through the fourth day of England's series decider at Trent Bridge, but told his shocked team-mates before play that "reasons why can wait" in an emotional dressing-room speech.
Speaking on the BBC's Test Match Special, Vaughan said he felt Stokes had lost confidence in the people around him, including the ECB.
"I just think about the last two weeks," Vaughan said. "When you're England captain, you've got to trust those that you're working with. You have to trust everyone around you, the management, the ECB."
The former England skipper stressed that he was not claiming the reported fallout was the sole reason behind Stokes' retirement, but believed it was one of several contributing factors.
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