rewrite this title Classic Ben Stokes – Joe Root not surprised friend ended England career in style

Joe Root bid an emotional farewell to his closest cricketing friend and toasted the box-office manner of his departure as “the most Ben Stokes thing you’re ever going to see”.

Root and Stokes first met before they were teenagers, two of the country’s most talented schoolboy cricketers who started as opponents and went on to become the inseparable on the international stage.

Between them they have captained England for the last nine years and of Stokes’ 122 Test appearances, Root has been present for 120.

Root often referred to Stokes as “superman” during his own reign and his habit for producing unforgettable moments returned at the perfect moment in the seconds after news of his exit became public.

Fans at Trent Bridge had just found out that they were witnessing the final act of his England career, breaking out in a spontaneous standing ovation, when he rewarded them with a wicket from his very next delivery.

It was high-class theatre of the kind that few athletes can ever hope to create and the latest in his own long list of magic moments.

“Classic Ben Stokes, isn’t it?” said Root.

“That’s the most Ben Stokes thing you’re ever going to see, just being able to almost turn it on like a tap. It’s quite fitting, really. So few players get the opportunity and the privilege to leave on their own terms and to do it with a moment like that.

“In your last game, to have a moment like that to share with the crowd, to share with everyone in the ground, even those watching at home or listening. I think it’s really special and something that, down the line, I’m sure we’ll look back on really fondly. I think it’s a fitting tribute really for one of England’s finest.”

Reflecting on their long, deep bond, Root added: “I’ve played with and against Ben since being 12 years old, so it’s sort of all I’ve ever known. He’s obviously been forever present throughout my whole career. We’ve been through quite a lot together at various different times, on and off the field.

“He’s like a brother… a strange brother. It’ll be strange the next time we turn up and he’s not here. I’m firmly the grandfather in this team now.”

England head coach Brendon McCullum also joined the praise for the man he has worked with for the past four and a half years.

Both men have rejected speculation that their relationship deteriorated in the midst of this winter’s Ashes defeat and the New Zealander spoke with fondness and respect for the all-rounder’s legacy.

He said: “Ben’s contribution to the game transcends cricket. He’s one of those players that each time he stepped into the arena, his energy and determination meant he had the potential to change the course of the match.

“For fans, Stokesy has provided some of the greatest moments of cricket that England has ever seen. For young players, he’s been a legend that inspires them to pick up a bat, to play with heart and bravery, and to give absolutely everything for his team.

“And for me, the last four years have been an incredible journey. While his time as our skipper has come to an end, he will always be a great friend. May the next chapter for Ben Stokes, be as great as the last.”

Rob Key, the England and Wales Cricket Board’s managing director of cricket, reflected on the privilege of having worked so closely with “one of the best leaders in British sport”.

He said: “From smashing Kent round in 2011, to going on to become one of the best cricketers the game has seen, it’s the end of one of the most remarkable international careers.

“The last four years have been an absolute privilege to work closely with the person I believe to be one of the best leaders in British sport.

“A captain who transformed a team, and the individuals in it, to become one of the most enjoyable to sit back and watch.

“I have no doubt that Ben’s legacy will inspire thousands to pick up a bat and try and emulate their hero.”