Ben Stokes reveals reason behind backing out from IPL 2025 auction

IPL 2025 mega auction: Ben Stokes revealed the reason behind pulling out of the auction. He said that he wanted to focus on his commitments to England cricket.

In Short

• Ben Stokes did not take part in IPL auction
• He was bought by CSK for Rs 16.25 crore in IPL 2023 auction
• Stokes aims to focus on prolonging career for England cricket

England's Test captain Ben Stokes revealed the reason behind not entering the IPL 2025 mega auction. Stokes made this move in order to prolong the twilight of his career for England cricket. Stokes was notably absent from the list of 52 English players who registered for the mega auction in Jeddah. This decision effectively rules out England's Test captain from participating in the IPL until 2026, when he will be 35 years old. Stokes could not participate in the Ipl 2024 for CSK due to injury and workload management concerns.

"[There is] just so much cricket," Stokes told BBC Sport in Christchurch ahead of England's first Test against New Zealand. "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."

Why Ben Stokes missed IPL auction?

Under new regulations introduced by the BCCI, players who have previously featured in the IPL but chose not to register for the mega auction are barred from entering the subsequent mini-auction. This rule aims to streamline player commitments and ensure full participation in the auction process.

Stokes' absence could have significant implications for his IPL career. This also highlights his priorities as the leader of England's Test side, especially with the focus on maintaining fitness and balancing international cricket commitments.

"Want to prolong my career for England"

"[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."

Stokes could have bagged a hefty deal in the IPL auction, knowing his history of going for high stakes in previous cycles. Stokes spent almost 12 months recovering from left knee surgery and was also troubled by a torn hamstring lately. A big challenge awaits the England team as they will