Star England all-rounder Ben Stokes has opted out of participating in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 to focus on his recovery and ensure he’s fit enough to contribute in his dual role as a batsman and a bowler.
Ben Stokes, England’s red-ball captain, known for his pivotal role in securing two major white-ball titles for the English team in 2019 and 2022, has decided to withdraw from the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. His absence may raise concerns about England’s chances of defending their T20 WC title in 2022, but Stokes has clarified that he’s prioritizing his fitness, especially for bowling, in anticipation of England’s upcoming red-ball commitments.
In an official statement, Stokes explained that he’s intentionally skipping the T20 WC in the USA and West Indies to hone his all-round abilities for the future. Despite grappling with a troublesome knee injury, Stokes managed to bowl five overs during the recent Test series against India, particularly in the 5th Test at Dharamshala. Unfortunately, England faced a significant defeat in that match, concluding the series with a 4-1 loss to an emerging Indian side led by Rohit Sharma.
The ninth edition of the T20 World Cup is scheduled to take place in the West Indies and the USA from June 2-29. Having clinched the title in the previous edition held in Australia, England aimed to secure a historic third T20 World Cup victory. However, without the leadership of their red-ball captain Stokes, they’ll face a tougher challenge.
Ben Stokes, who withdrew from IPL 2024 last year, likely had discussions with the top brass at the English cricket board before reaching this decision. Earlier today, the ECB made it official on their website that Stokes has opted out of participating in the World Cup to concentrate on improving his bowling skills ahead of the upcoming 3-match Test series against West Indies and Sri Lanka.
“I’m working hard and focusing on building my bowling fitness back up to fulfill a full role as an all-rounder in all formats of cricket. Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice that allows me to be the all-rounder I want to be for the foreseeable future,” Stokes said in an interview with the ECB.
“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. I wish Jos, Motty, and all the team the best of luck in defending our title,” he further added.
In May, the England team is gearing up for a four-match T20I series at home against Pakistan as part of their preparations for the big tournament. Jos Buttler and his teammates find themselves in Group B for the T20 World Cup, where they’ll be facing off against tough competitors like arch-rivals Australia, Oman, Namibia, and Scotland.
