Ben Stokes' international career has ended with a defeat as New Zealand emphatically sealed a 2-1 Test series win over England, triumphing by 160 runs at Trent Bridge.

Stokes' retirement from international cricket was confirmed on Sunday.

He elected to open the batting in England's second innings, but was swiftly dismissed as the hosts ended day four on 103-4.

And England were bowled out for just 212 on day five.

Emilio Gay (10) edged behind before Joe Root (18) was run out by Henry Nicholls as New Zealand picked up where they left off.

Jamie Smith (60) and Gus Atkinson (19) put on a 75-run partnership before the latter fell just before lunch, being trapped lbw by Mitchell Santner (2-54), while Nathan Smith (2-64) dismissed Jofra Archer (2) quickly after the restart.

Josh Tongue (2) was inexplicably run out as he wandered out of his crease, before Smith was caught in the deep as the final wicket off the bowling of Santner.

Thanks for the memories, Stokesy 

An all-time LEGEND. pic.twitter.com/raNn7pc0eG

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 29, 2026

Stokes' departure signals the end of Bazball?

With Stokes' international career coming to an end, it leaves head coach Brendon McCullum's future in the balance after another disappointing Test series.

England have lost their first three-match home series in the longest format since 2012, when South Africa's victory brought an end to Andrew Strauss' reign as captain.

They have not won a Test series since defeating New Zealand 18 months ago, drawing against a below-par India side and suffering a heavy defeat to Australia in the intervening period.

While Stokes will be remembered for his heroic Ashes innings at Headingley in 2019, his captaincy has ended in tumultuous circumstances, and scrutiny will now be placed on the ECB.

New Zealand, on the other hand, have become the first team to come from behind to win a three-Test series in England.