Chennai Super Kings released Ben Stokes from their squad following the announcement by the England Test captain that he won’t be participating in the upcoming 2024 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Stokes had declared his decision after the conclusion of England’s campaign in the recently concluded 2023 World Cup, citing the need for knee surgery.
Ben Stokes intends to undergo knee surgery with the goal of achieving full recovery ahead of England’s extensive Test series in India. Stokes’s contribution to CSK was minimal in their victorious 2023 season as he featured in just two matches with a modest performance.
Aakash Chopra Took A Dig At Ben Stokes
Aakash Chopra, the former Indian cricketer, has suggested that even if Ben Stokes had been available for IPL 2024, CSK might not have retained him, considering his injury concerns. Chopra also cast doubt on any other franchise’s willingness to invest ₹16.25 crores in Stokes, given his recent fitness issues and his performances in the last few seasons.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Chopra said: “Ben Stokes has said that he won’t play in the IPL. Were Chennai going to retain him? That’s a big question. In my opinion, they weren’t going to do so. Would any other team have bought him for 16.25 crores? My two cents – it was not going to happen,”
He added: “So he did the right thing. I don’t know if it’s strategic or anything. Why should we comment on it? The truth is that 16.25 crore rupees are suddenly freed there. Ambati Rayudu has retired. So you have 20 crore rupees and you will get five crores in any case when the purse is increased.”
It has to be noted that, Ben Stokes’ absence along with Ambati Rayudu’s retirement frees up a significant amount of CSK’s budget. his financial freedom gives CSK an opportunity to strategize afresh for the upcoming season. CSK is left with a budget of ₹31.4 crore for the 2024 season.
