Retirement remains a live issue, but there is optimism that Stokes has cooled on that nuclear option. He will meet with his long-time agent, Neil Fairbrother, the former England and Lancashire batter, to determine the best course of action. Offered the chance to resign on Monday, the 35-year old may yet take the chance to step down and carry on through to the end of his central contract, in 2027, after the next Ashes. He could also opt to relinquish the captaincy and take an indefinite break from the game.