Former England Test captain Ben Stokes has revealed that he wants to coach England in the future, saying he has already begun working towards that goal while ruling out any return to international cricket after his retirement. Stokes, who retired following the Test series against New Zealand, said he is focused on the next phase of his career and has no plans to reverse his decision, even for the 2027 Ashes.

Speaking on the "For The Love of Cricket" podcast hosted by former teammates Stuart Broad and Jos Buttler, Stokes said he is currently completing his Level Three coaching qualification. He said he wants to have all the necessary coaching credentials in place before stepping away from playing entirely and described becoming England coach one day as a long-term ambition. Stokes added that he enjoys leadership roles and believes coaching would allow him to continue contributing to the game.

Reflecting on England's leadership transition, Stokes admitted he was surprised that Joe Root was appointed captain instead of Harry Brook after his retirement. He questioned the decision, pointing out that Brook had been serving as vice-captain and suggesting that backing emerging leaders is important. However, Stokes also expressed full support for Root, saying he hopes the new captain enjoys success alongside newly appointed head coach Stephen Fleming.

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Stokes also discussed the end of Brendon McCullum's tenure as England's Test coach, joking that his own retirement indirectly led to the coaching change. He recalled informing McCullum about his retirement while the New Zealander was making toast and later learning that McCullum had been informed of his departure as Test coach. Despite the change, Stokes said McCullum remained positive about continuing his work with England's white-ball teams.

The all-rounder firmly dismissed speculation about making a comeback for future international assignments, including next summer's Ashes. Stokes said he never viewed retirement as a temporary break and believes that if he were ever to play for England again, it would only have been as captain. At 35, he said he is comfortable with his decision to retire from international cricket and is now looking ahead to a future in coaching while remaining involved in the sport.

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