Ben Stokes has informed England‘s management that he will not be available for selection for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. Stokes, who played a pivotal role in England’s victory in the 2022 final against Pakistan, cited his focus on returning to full Test fitness following knee surgery as the reason for his decision.
Stokes, who scored a match-winning half-century in the 2022 final, has only played two T20 matches since then, both in last year’s IPL.
Having previously retired from ODI cricket in 2022 before reversing his decision to play in the 50-over World Cup late last year, Stokes had to delay knee surgery, which has affected his bowling fitness. He aims to build his bowling fitness back up to fulfill a full all-rounder role in all formats of cricket.
Stokes talks about his bowling
Stokes expressed his commitment to working hard and focusing on his bowling fitness, stating that opting out of the IPL and the T20 World Cup is a sacrifice he is willing to make to achieve his goals. He looks forward to playing for Durham in the County Championship before the start of England’s Test summer.
“The recent Test tour of India highlighted how far behind I was from a bowling point of view after my knee surgery and nine months without bowling. I’m looking forward to playing for Durham in the County Championship before the start of our Test summer,” Stokes said.
In Stokes’ absence, England will consider using Liam Livingstone in the No. 4 spot, a position he filled during their recent series against West Indies. Jamie Overton, the Surrey all-rounder, will also be in contention.
Ben Stokes wished his teammates good luck
Stokes wished Jos Buttler, Matthew Mott, and the England team the best of luck in defending their T20 World Cup title.
“I wish Jos [Buttler], Motty [Matthew Mott] and all the team the best of luck in defending our title.”
Stokes’ decision may signal the end of his T20I career, having played only three T20Is for England outside of World Cups in the last three years. However, he could still come into contention for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
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