Ben Stokes return for Ashes unlikely as Stephen Fleming backs retirement call

Former England Test coach Stephen Fleming has ruled out the possibility of prompting Ben Stokes to reconsider his retirement from international cricket before the 2022 Ashes series. The 35-year-old Stokes announced his retirement during a June defeat to New Zealand that resulted in England's 2-1 series loss. Since then, Stokes has continued playing for Durham County side and has also signed a contract with Australia's Adelaide Strikers for a Big Bash League match.

Fleming, who met with Stokes upon his appointment, commented on the former England captain's contentment with his decision. Fleming, who has a strong rapport with Stokes, emphasized the importance of respecting Stokes' decision, stating that attempting to alter it would be inappropriate. Fleming's appointment as England's Test coach followed the team's 3-0 series defeat to Pakistan, which occurred while Fleming was dealing with family commitments.

With England's current ranking at sixth, Fleming aims to elevate the team's performance and improve their dismal World Test Championship record. However, he acknowledged that significant progress is required to achieve their goal of reaching the summit for the first time since 2012.