Former England captain Ben Stokes sort of looked back on his 15 year international run, after he announced his retirement from international cricket. He basically said the call was all his, and yes the timing felt… right, in the middle of everything going on in his life.

Stokes finished up his international career after the third Test vs New Zealand, at Trent Bridge. So that’s it, another chapter closes, because it ends one of England’s most successful cricket eras, which started in 2011, and in that stretch he even spent four years as the team’s Test captain, which feels huge when you think about it.

The 34 year old thanked pretty much everyone who got behind him over the journey—teammates, coaches, friends, family, and England fans too. He said wearing the England shirt was the single biggest honour of his career and that he genuinely enjoyed every bit of time on the pitch, even the messy bits at times.

In an emotional post online, Stokes said his career was packed with moments he won’t forget. He talked about the many peaks and dips he had, both on the field and off it, and he added that only he could decide when it was time to step away. Not anyone else, not a committee, not the pundits, etc.

Stokes wrote:

"It's been a mad 15 years. It's had everything thrown in there, from the highest highs to the lowest lows (on and off the field). My time was up, and no one was going to be able to make that decision other than me. But in the meantime, I just want to say love every single England fan and every single cricket fan who's supported me over the years."

He also made it clear he was grateful to every teammate he shared dressing rooms with across his time representing England.

He added:

"I love every single person I've walked out onto the field with representing England. I could go on and on, but I hope you get the gist of how much I loved doing what I did for 15 years. I'm looking forward to being a fan and supporting the team, and the odd day in hospitality won't go amiss. Family, friends, teammates, fans... I love yas all. Stokesy."

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Stokesmade his England debut back in 2011 and then went on to become one of the team’s key players in every format. He was often the kind of player who could change a game with bat or ball, and he also led England as Test captain, which is not a small thing.

Along the way, there were loads of unforgettable scenes that helped England chase, and sometimes grab, success on the world stage. His stubborn fighting spirit, his leadership, and his all-round qualities is what helped cement him as one of the top cricketers of his generation.

Now, even if the days of playing for England are over, Stokes said he’ll still back the national side as a fan. He finishes international cricket with respect for teammates, rivals, and supporters all around the globe, wrapping up a remarkable 15 year journey with England, and honestly it feels like a proper full stop.