IPL 2024: Ben Stokes Opts Out, Confirms CSK Franchise

CHENNAI: Cricket fans were hit with surprising news as England’s cricket sensation, Ben Stokes, made a bold decision to skip the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The star all-rounder, known for his explosive performances, is stepping away from the IPL arena to meticulously manage his workload and ensure peak fitness.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Stokes’ IPL franchise, officially announced the move on Thursday, expressing full support for his decision.

CSK highlighted the upcoming five-Test series against India and the subsequent T20 World Cup in June 2024 as key factors influencing Stokes’ strategic move.

While the deadline for IPL teams to retain or release players is looming on November 26, CSK’s statement left fans speculating about Stokes’ status on the team roster.

The franchise, which secured Stokes for a whopping INR 16.25 crore in the previous auction, did not clarify whether he would be retained or released.

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CSK’s acquisition of Stokes in the previous auction marked a historic moment, becoming the most expensive signing in the franchise’s IPL history. Hopes were high for Stokes, especially after his T20 World Cup triumph with England, and he was even considered a potential leadership option for CSK.

However, his limited participation in the 2023 season, featuring in just two matches and battling a knee injury, did not meet the initial expectations.

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