Ben Stokes scores match-winning century in first match since England retirement

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Ben Stokes helps Durham chase down Derbyshire's 256-run total
Ben Stokes helps Durham chase down Derbyshire’s 256-run total - Mike Egerton/PA

Ben Stokes led Durham to victory with an unbeaten 108 in his first match since retiring from international cricket and standing down as Test captain.

Stokes has not played a game since his shock retirement midway through England’s third Test match against New Zealand following a tumultuous few weeks off the back of a poor Ashes campaign.

Derbyshire posted 256 in their opening match of the Royal London 50-over tournament, with Stokes bowling nine overs for 38 runs without taking a wicket. Martin Andersson scored an impressive hundred for Derby.

Stokes was unable to take a wicket in his nine overs
Stokes was unable to take a wicket in his nine overs with the ball - Mike Egerton/PA

Stokes, batting at No 4, rescued his county from a rocky start of 24 for two, building his innings slowly before accelerating in the second half of his stand, including against former England team-mate Shoaib Bashir.

Stokes was in discomfort throughout the latter stages of the innings and had to limp singles while not moving freely at the crease.

Stokes was down at points, but crucially for Durham, not out
Stokes was down at points, but crucially for Durham, not out - Mike Egerton/PA

The 35-year-old was not-out at the end of the innings as Durham got over the line with just under two overs to spare.