Stokes Targets England Coach Role After Retiring
The former captain has started his coaching qualifications and dreams of leading the national team.
Ben Stokes brought his international career to a close in June at the age of 35, stepping away from cricket after England's third Test against New Zealand. Now, the ex-skipper has set his sights on a fresh challenge behind the scenes, revealing that he wants to coach his country in the years to come.
During a conversation with former teammates Stuart Broad and Jos Buttler, Stokes shared his plans to pursue coaching once his playing days are over. He is already working towards his Level 3 coaching award, the highest qualification in England, saying, "I know what I want to do in terms of staying within the game, which is to be a coach. Would I love to be coach of England one day? Absolutely." He also expressed a strong desire to remain involved in leadership roles that do not require him to be on the field.
While Stokes's enthusiasm is clear, realistic expectations suggest that the England and Wales Cricket Board would want him to cut his teeth at lower levels first. County assignments or roles with the England Lions or Under-19 side would likely be prerequisites before he could take the top job. For now, Stokes is focused on completing his qualifications and building a path towards his ultimate ambition.