Ben Stokes reveals why he opted out of IPL 2025 mega auction

Ben Stokes has played 43 games in his IPL career.

England’s red ball captain Ben Stokes had chosen against registering his name for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 mega auction.

Stokes is regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders of the current generation. Stokes has played 43 games in his IPL career representing multiple franchises – Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS), Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). His absence from the list of 52 English players registered for the mega auction came as a surprise for fans around the world.

Stokes’ decision has effectively sidelined him from participating in the league until 2027. Under newly introduced regulation by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the players who skip the mega auction would be banned from entering the subsequent mini auction.

England’s cricketing schedule for 2025 is jam-packed. The “Three Lions” will host India in a five-match test series before touring Australia for the Ashes in November. Additionally, with Brendon McCullum named as the white-ball coach for England, Stokes might make his return to the ODI side for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Ben Stokes reveals why he opted out of IPL 2025 mega auction

Speaking to BBC Sport in Christchurch ahead of England’s test series against New Zealand, Stokes explained his decision to opt out of IPL 2025. Stokes emphasized that he wants to look after his body to prolong his career.

Stokes said, “[There is] just so much cricket. There’s no hiding behind the fact that I’m at the back-end of my career. I obviously want to play as long as I possibly can. Looking after my body and looking after myself as much as I can is key to that.“

Reflecting on his priorities he continued, “[It is about] prioritising games and when I do play – obviously I’m in South Africa this year – so it’s about looking at what I’ve got ahead and making the decision that I think is right for me to be able to prolong my career as long as possible. I want to wear this England shirt for as long as I can.“

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