Ben Stokes Blasts News Outlet For Publishing Family's Secret Tragedy

At a time when Ben Stokes would have loved to spend some quality time away from the hustle and bustle of international cricket after a historic summer, he has been left fuming by an English news outlet. On Monday, The Sun reported that Stokes had a half-brother and sister who were both murdered in New Zealand by his mother’s former partner in 1988 – three years before Stokes’ birth.

Tracey, eight, and Andrew, four, were shot in Christchurch by their father Richard Dunn before he turned the gun on himself. The report claimed that Dunn became jealous after Stokes’ mother Deb started a new relationship with Gerard Stokes. The report further quoted a source close to the cricketer saying his birth gave his mother “something to live for”.

Read More: Ben Stokes’ Brother And Sister Were Killed By His Mother’s Ex-Boyfriend

“Ben was born at a time of terrible tragedy. Deb was enduring every parents’ worst possible nightmare and his arrival gave her something to live for,” the source told The Sun.

“It’s incredible that he’s achieved so much as a cricketer and made her so proud,” the source added.

Also Read: Ben Stokes’ Brother And Sister Were Killed By His Mother’s Ex-Boyfriend

Ben Stokes has now reacted strongly to the report and understandably so. The allrounder took to Twitter to post a strongly-worded message as he condemned the level of journalism

“It is hard to find words that adequately describe suck low and despicable behaviour, disguised as  journalism. I cannot conceive of anything more immoral, heartless or contemptuous to the feelings and circumstances of my family,” wrote the New Zealand-born star.

He concluded his tweet by making a request, writing:

“Despite the fact that this has now been made public, I do please ask all concerned to respect my family’s privacy and right to home life.”

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— Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) September 17, 2019

Ben Stokes had a stunning summer where he helped England win the World Cup and draw the Ashes at home.

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