Ben Stokes explains the reason behind opting out of the IPL 2025 mega-auction. (Source – Getty Images)
England Test captain Ben Stokes opted out of the IPL 2025 mega-auction, which happened on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah. Under the new rules and guidelines of the IPL, the 33-year-old risked missing the next two editions of the cash-rich league as registering for the mega-auction was compulsory for all the players. The all-rounder however isn’t worried about missing the IPL action as his goal is to keep playing for the England national team.
Ahead of the first Test against New Zealand, Stokes highlighted that he is at the backend of his career and wants to wear the England shirt as long as possible. For the same reason, he decided to opt out of the IPL mega-auction.
“There’s 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 – prioritizing games and when I do play,” Stokes told BBC Test to match special.
“Obviously, I’m in South Africa this year (with MI Cape Town in the SA20), 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 be wearing this England shirt for as long as I can,” he added.
Got to appreciate what New Zealand were able to do in India: Stokes
Stokes lauded New Zealand for beating India 3-0 in the sub-continent. Earlier in the year, England suffered a 4-1 defeat to India at the latter’s home and for the same reason, Stokes understands the difficulty in achieving the feat. Talking about the same, the Christchurch-born cricketer stated that it was a massive not just for New Zealand but for the cricketing world as the Kiwis have done something that no other could for a very long time.
Also Read – New Zealand vs England 2024 Test series: All you need to know
“You’ve got to appreciate what New Zealand was able to do in India. Even though we’re coming up against them I think you’ve got to hold your hands up and give a huge amount of credit to New Zealand for going to India. I think it’s massive for world cricket,” Stokes said.
“India have been such a force in their home conditions. A lot of teams around the world have gone there and wished they could have done the same thing but it’s a lot easier said than done. It was a huge thing for cricket in general, that a touring team has been able to go and get one over on India like that. I can’t remember a time when a team has been able to do that,” he added.