Babar Azam Pays Emotional Tribute to Ben Stokes

Former Pakistan captain Babar Azam has paid a heartfelt tribute to England all-rounder Ben Stokes after his retirement from international cricket.

Ben Stokes announced his decision to retire during England’s third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, bringing an end to a remarkable career filled with memorable match-winning performances and two ICC World Cup titles.

Following the announcement, tributes came in from across the cricketing world. Babar Azam joined several current and former players in recognizing Stokes’ major contribution to the game.

The former Pakistan captain praised Stokes’ outstanding career and inspirational leadership. He also shared a photo of the pair on his Instagram story, describing Stokes as one of cricket’s most influential players and wishing him success in the next chapter of his life.

“A fearless competitor and an inspirational leader who delivered on the biggest stage, again and again. It was an honour to share the field with you. All the very best, Ben, for the next chapter,” Azam wrote.

Ben Stokes enjoyed a distinguished international career after making his England debut in 2011. He earned his Test cap in 2013 and went on to become widely regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders of his generation.

He played key roles in England’s victories at the 2019 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup and the 2022 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. He also led England’s Test side through a transformative period.

The 35-year-old also became one of the most destructive batters in Test cricket. He retires as the leading six-hitter in the format’s history, with 138 sixes in 122 Tests.

England head coach and former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum is second on the all-time list with 107 sixes.

Ben Stokes finished his Test career with 7,273 runs and 252 wickets. He became only the second player in Test history to complete the prestigious double of 7,000 runs and 250 wickets.

South African great Jacques Kallis remains the only other player to achieve the feat, having scored 13,289 runs and taken 292 wickets during his illustrious Test career.