‘He’ll be in a dark place’: Nasser Hussain urges Ben Stokes not to make emotional retirement decision

Former England captain Nasser Hussain has come to the defence of Ben Stokes amid growing scrutiny over the all-rounder’s future following the nightclub controversy that led to his omission from England’s squad for the second Test against New Zealand.

Stokes and fellow England player Gus Atkinson are currently under investigation by the ECB after allegedly breaching the team’s midnight curfew following England’s victory in the first Test at Lord’s. The incident has intensified pressure on Stokes, with some commentators even suggesting disciplinary action beyond his exclusion from the upcoming match.

In Stokes’ absence, Joe Root will captain England in the second Test against New Zealand.

Speaking on the Sky Sports Cricket podcast, Hussain acknowledged that Stokes had made a serious mistake but argued that the controversy should not overshadow his immense contribution to English cricket.

“Ben Stokes has been there for England a lot. He’s been there as a captain and as a player in some of their greatest moments, including World Cup victories,” Hussain said.

Describing Stokes as one of England’s most influential modern cricketers, Hussain said the all-rounder had repeatedly delivered for his country during crucial moments.

“Ben Stokes has been a warrior for England. He got it wrong this time — horribly wrong — but I don’t believe it is a sackable offence,” Hussain said.

The former skipper also expressed concern that Stokes could make an emotional decision about his future while under intense public scrutiny.

“I just hope Ben doesn’t think he has let too many people down and decide to retire because of this. That would be a very sad way for one of England’s greats to leave the game,” he added.

Hussain concluded by saying that a player of Stokes’ stature deserves to be remembered for his achievements rather than a single controversy.

“One of England’s greats should not go out like that. I really hope this is not the last we see of Ben Stokes in an England shirt,” he said.