Major Setback for MS Dhoni’s CSK as Ben Stokes Opts Out of IPL 2024 for THIS Reason. Dealing a notable setback to MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings (CSK), England Test captain and dynamic all-rounder Ben Stokes has chosen to withdraw from the IPL 2024 season. The official statement from CSK underscores Stokes’ dedication to workload management and the maintenance of optimal fitness levels as the primary reasons for his decision.
At the age of 32, Ben Stokes became a part of the Chennai Super Kings for the IPL 2023 season, contributing significant firepower to an already formidable team lineup. His notable return from retirement for the ODI World Cup 2023 highlighted his steadfast commitment to the game. Nevertheless, the continuous demands of cricketing commitments have led Stokes to prioritize his physical well-being.
On November 23, 2023, CSK issued an official statement confirming that Ben Stokes won’t be participating in the IPL 2024 season. The team expressed support for Stokes’ decision, stressing the significance of effectively managing his workload. The statement underscored the upcoming challenges for the English all-rounder, notably a strenuous 5-Test series in India before the IPL and the subsequent T20 World Cup in June 2024.
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The absence of Stokes will undoubtedly be felt by CSK, given his game-changing prowess with both bat and ball, which has been pivotal for the team. To maintain competitiveness in IPL 2024, CSK needs to reassess their approach and explore new options. While Stokes’ non-participation presents challenges, it also provides an opportunity for the team to experiment with different strategies and discover untapped potential.
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IPL Journey of Ben Stokes: From Record-Breaking Debut to All-Round Brilliance and Unforgettable Moments
Stokes made his IPL debut in the 2017 season, signing a lucrative deal with Rising Pune Supergiant for a staggering INR 14.5 crores, which made him the most expensive foreign player at the time. His inaugural season showcased his promise as he scored 316 runs in 12 matches, boasting an impressive strike rate of 142.98. Beyond the batting statistics, it was Stokes’ knack for influencing crucial moments in matches that captured the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
The English cricketer continued his IPL journey with the Rajasthan Royals in 2018. The 2019 season saw him showcasing his all-round skills, making significant contributions with both the bat and the ball. Despite flashes of brilliance, Stokes’ overall performance in the season remained somewhat inconsistent.
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The 2020 IPL season, relocated to the UAE due to COVID-19, marked a significant chapter for Stokes. His standout moment came with a spectacular unbeaten knock of 107 against Mumbai Indians, securing his highest run tally in the IPL. Notably, he took on the role of an opener for the Rajasthan Royals, showcasing confidence in his ability to deliver substantial scores. Across eight matches, Stokes accumulated a total of 285 runs at an impressive average of nearly 41.
