England’s Test captain Ben Stokes, who is not playing in the ongoing three-match series against Sri Lanka due to an injury, has opened up about his post-retirement plans. According to the star all-rounder, who played a big role in helping England win the 2019 ODI World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup, he sees himself in a managerial role in the game after hanging up his boots.
“I do see myself probably wanting to go down the route of being a coach. I think that’s just with my love for the game. When I’m done playing, I’d love to be able to try and affect a few people’s careers,” he said.
Stokes also said how he is in constant touch with England’s current coach, Brendon McCullum, about the role. He also revealed that McCullum was completely in love with his role as the team’s manager.
“I’ve spoken to Baz a lot—obviously he went into coaching quite quickly after finishing playing, and he absolutely loves it. He loves the fact that he can try and influence people to not only be successful, but just to keep reminding them that this is the best time of your life, playing professional cricket, so go there and enjoy it,” he said.
Speaking about his ‘mantra’, Stokes said that he followed McCullum’s approach towards his game. “That’s definitely my mantra towards the game. Now, being 33 and having played a lot, I need to make sure that I enjoy every single day, through the good and through the bad,” he added.
Stokes’ admiration for coaching also invites a tantalising question. He was asked by the Telegraph if he could emulate McCullum and be England’s head coach one day. Stokes smiled before responding, “Who knows?”
Stokes has established himself as one of the finest all-rounders of the game in the past decade. After making his debut in 2013, the star all-rounder has guided his nation to two World Cup crowns in 2019 and 2022. He has also endured just one series defeat since becoming England’s Test captain two years ago. They conceded the Test loss against India earlier this year.
Coming to the ongoing three-match series, England currently leads Sri Lanka 2-0. They won the opening fixture by five wickets at Old Trafford before registering another 190-run victory at Lord’s.
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