Brendon McCullum has praised Ben Stokes following Stokes’ retirement from international cricket, according to reports. McCullum’s comments come after Stokes’ decision to step away from international play, which had been expected to take effect after a specific Test match. Stokes, described as 35 years old, had indicated that he would “pull up stumps” after the third Test against New Zealand. The coverage focuses on McCullum’s recognition of Stokes’ contributions and the end of his international career. Across the accounts, there is agreement on the broad timeline: Stokes’ retirement is tied to the third Test versus New Zealand, and McCullum expresses public approval of Stokes as he leaves the international game. No additional details beyond the retirement confirmation and the timing of the final Test are provided in the excerpts shared here.