Ben Stokes opts out of IPL 2024 due to left knee surgery

Chennai Super Kings confirmed on Thursday (November 23) that England’s all-rounder and Test skipper, Ben Stokes, will miss the IPL 2024 season. Stokes, who recently played in the World Cup after reversing his ODI retirement decision, is set to undergo surgery on his left knee. The surgery aims to aid his recovery ahead of England’s crucial Test tour of India scheduled for the end of January 2024. Despite targeting a return for the Test series, Stokes has decided to skip the IPL to ensure proper management of his workload and fitness.

Speaking about his fitness plans during the World Cup, Stokes mentioned, “I will hopefully be fine for the Test series [against India]. I am having surgery after the World Cup… There was a lot of time put into deciding when to get it done. The India Test series, which we start at the end of January, I should be fine to go by then.”

Read More: Rohit Sharma opts to step back from T20 Internationals: BCCI Sources

Earlier reports suggested that CSK might release Stokes, who was acquired for a hefty INR 16.25 crore in the previous year’s auction, anticipating his potential unavailability for the upcoming season. However, the franchise has expressed support for Stokes’ decision to prioritize recovery and manage his workload.

“The Chennai Super Kings management is supportive of Ben in his decision to manage his workload with England playing a 5-Test series in India before the IPL and then the T20 World Cup in June 2024,” stated an official release from CSK.

For more cricket-related news:

1. ICC World Cup 2023: Streaming platform Hotstar creates a new history amidst tumbling records in Wankhede
2. Rachin Ravindra’s early grit: From childhood setbacks to unwavering dedication in Wellington
3. ICC World Cup 2023: Captain Rohit unlikely to tinker with the winning combination ahead of a decisive clash against the Kiwis
4. ICC World Cup 2023: Virat Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s record for 50th ODI century