I'm Going To The IPL: Ben Stokes Confirms Joining CSK Amid Injury Concerns


image-lenzoft5Ben Stokes (Source: Twitter)

England's premier all-rounder and Test captain Ben Stokes has been incredible for them, changing their fortunes in the white jersey in a matter of time. The left-hander was previously snapped up by the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Chennai Super Kings for a record sum of ₹16.25 Crore for the upcoming edition.

Recently, reports were coming that the versatile superstar might be missing the latter stages of the league to fulfil his national duties where they would be playing a Test against Ireland in early June.

However, after a tense loss against New Zealand by a bare margin of 1 run, the Christchurch-born confirmed that he will play in the mega-event starting on 31st March. The problem with his participation was the troubling knee which was a topic of discussion in the English circle. 

He further revealed that he has discussed with Super Kings coach Stephen Fleming where they talked about his current condition.

"I’m going to the IPL. I’ve had conversations with ‘Flem’ and he’s fully aware of the situation with my body. It’s a week by week case at the moment,"

Moreover, he admitted that it has kind of infuriated him as he has not been able to play as a genuine all-rounder but expects himself to make get fully fit in due time.

"I’m not going to lie, it’s incredibly frustrating knowing something has been holding me back from performing as I’d like to. I’ve been working hard with the physios and the medics trying to get myself to a place where I can fulfil my role as I have done for the last 10 years.

"I’ve got a four-month period now to get it better before the Ashes because I want to be turning up for the first Test in Birmingham able to fulfil my role properly."

It will be interesting to see if turns for the entirety of IPL or a part of it, we will only get to know that in due time.