New England boss Stephen Fleming plays down speculation over Ben Stokes U-turn

The prospect of Ben Stokes reversing his international retirement to play a part in next year’s Ashes has receded after England Test coach Stephen Fleming said it would be “wrong” to try and change his mind.

Stokes walked away in dramatic fashion earlier this summer after four rollercoaster years as Test captain but has continued playing for Durham, helping his county win the County Championship Division Two title with some handy contributions.

He has also signed up for a stint with Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League and the idea that he might make a grand return for one last crack at Australia next summer refuses to go away.

Even England’s director of cricket, Rob Key, admitted it would be a “great story” and refused to rule it out.

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At peace with decision

But England’s new red-ball coach, Fleming, moved to dampen the speculation despite meeting the 35-year-old during his first few days in the country.

“I went up to Durham and spoke to Ben, which was good,” said Fleming, who previously worked with the all-rounder at Chennai Super Kings.

“He’s really happy and seemed to be really at peace with his decision.

“I’ve worked with Ben quite a bit. We’ve got a really good relationship. He was in a good space.

“He’d just bowled another 20 overs for Durham with success.”

Respect

He added: “He seems really happy and comfortable with what he’s doing.

“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.”

Speaking later to BBC Sport’s Test Match Special, Fleming suggested he would not be leaning in Stokes to perform a U-turn.

“I respect his decision too much,” he said. “To try to turn that around and question that is wrong.

“I know how much goes into that type of decision, and I respect that.”

Obsession

Although Stokes seems increasingly unlikely to be part of the Ashes, Fleming has no problem at all with the English public’s preoccupation with their oldest rivalry.

In fact, he shares it.

“I have an obsession with it as well,” he said. “New Zealand has obsession with it, we love it.

“We have a deep desire to beat Australia in everything, as the little cousin. We are linked, and I’m incredibly excited about being part of it.”

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