(Image Source: Instagram)
[Saba Sports News] Ben Stokes, the veteran all-rounder, has been dealing with left knee issues that restricted him from bowling since the second Ashes Test at Lord’s earlier this year.
After participating in the ODI World Cup 2023, where he played as a specialist batter, Stokes underwent successful knee surgery. He shared a photo on Instagram post-surgery, using crutches, and announced the start of his rehabilitation with the caption, “In and out Under the [knife emoji] done. Rehab starts now.”
Despite a commendable personal performance in the World Cup with an average of 50.66, England, the defending champions, had a disappointing run, finishing seventh out of ten teams. Stokes, who came out of ODI retirement for the tournament, has decided to skip the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) season to focus on his fitness and manage his workload.
Consequently, Chennai Super Kings released him from their squad after acquiring him for INR 16.25 crore in the 2023 auction, where he played only a limited role.
Stokes’ absence from the IPL will now allow him to prepare for England’s five-Test series against India, scheduled from January 25 to March 11, 2024. He expressed his commitment to recovering fully for this series, emphasizing the importance of his knee’s health and readiness for the upcoming Tests.