Star all-rounder Ben Stokes has stated that he does not want to be considered for selection for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said on Tuesday, 2 April. The England Test captain’s focus is currently to gain full bowling fitness for not just the upcoming summer, which includes two three-match Test series against West Indies and Sri Lanka respectively, but all cricket in the future.
Commenting on his decision, Stokes said: “I’m working hard and focusing on building my bowling fitness back up to fulfil 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.
In November, Stokes underwent surgery for a knee issue which hampered his ability to bowl regularly. “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. Said Stokes. England are the defending T20 World Cup champions, having claimed their second title in 2022 in Australia. Although Stokes last played a T20 international for England in the World Cup final in November 2022, the 32-year-old bowled just five overs during England’s 4-1 series defeat to India last month. “I wish Jos (Buttler), Motty (Matthew Mott) and all the team the best of luck in defending our title.”
England will play a four-match T20 series against Pakistan in preparation for the World Cup, which will be held in the West Indies and the United States in June. They then play group matches against Scotland, Australia, Oman and Namibia before the Super 8s and knockout stages.
