LONDON, 20 September 2026 (Kamran Raja): Newly appointed England Test coach Stephen Fleming has said it would be wrong to ask former captain Ben Stokes to reverse his decision to retire from international cricket ahead of next year’s Ashes. Stokes announced his retirement from England duty and stepped down as Test captain during the team’s defeat by New Zealand at Trent Bridge in June. The 35-year-old has since continued playing for Durham and is also set to join Adelaide Strikers for a stint in Australia’s Big Bash League. Fleming, who previously worked with Stokes at Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League, said he had recently met the all-rounder and found him comfortable with his decision. Fleming also said he respected Stokes’ choice and would not attempt to persuade him to return to international cricket. The former New Zealand captain, appointed as England’s Test coach in July, has said his ambition is to take England back to the top of the Test rankings and improve the team’s record in the World Test Championship. Fleming also highlighted his close relationship with England white-ball coach Brendon McCullum, saying their previous experience as teammates and friends would allow them to work together openly and effectively.