Ben Stokes’ father Ged Stokes passed away on Tuesday ater battling against cancer for more than a year. His father was aging 65. According to a report in ESPN Cricinfo, the announcement regarding the death of former New Zealand rugby league international was made by his former club, Workington Town, where he played one season in 1982-83, before returning as coach in 2003.
“It is with great sadness that we learn our former player and coach Ged Stokes has passed away. Ged is written into the rich fabric of Town history and will be greatly missed” the club wrote on Twitter
“Our thoughts are with Deb, Ben and James. Ged still has many, many friends here in West Cumbria and we send our thoughts to them too,” the post added.
Meanwhile, Stokes is currently in South Africa due to his national commitments. He played the three-match ODI series before the ODIs were called out due to COVID-19 fears.
Also Read: Ben Stokes Issues Warning To Oppositions Ahead Of ICC T20 World Cup In India
Stokes’ father was diagnosed a year ago. The all-rounder was granted infidelity leave to be with his father during England’s Test series against Pakistan so that he can spend time with his family.
In a column that he wrote for Daily Mirror, Stokes stated the importance of his family for him.
Saying goodbye to my dad, my mum and my brother in Christchurch was tough. “It has been a difficult time for us as a family, but we’ve pulled together and supported each other as best we can. And I was able to get on the plane with my parents’ love and blessing after we reached the decision, for me to get back playing, as a family with no external influences.”
Official Twitter handles of England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) paid homage to Stokes’ father.
Also Read: ‘World Cup Final or Headingley’, Ben Stokes Picks His Favourite Knock
“All our thoughts are with Ben Stokes and his family following the passing of his father, Ged,” ECB tweeted from its official handle.
All our thoughts are with Ben Stokes and his family following the passing of his father, Ged. 💔 pic.twitter.com/r1KYPQFuxD
— England Cricket (@englandcricket) December 8, 2020
“RIP Ged Stokes. One of the greatest characters in our special cricket family. We’re with you Ben. Strength to you and your family,” the franchise wrote on Twitter.
RIP Ged Stokes. One of the greatest characters in our special cricket family.
We're with you Ben. Strength to you and your family 💗🙏 pic.twitter.com/jA2EA0DVIk
— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) December 8, 2020
