Ben Stokes prioritised international cricket over IPL as he opted out of the 2025 mega auction. Here's why the England skipper made this tough decision.

England captain Ben Stokes decided not to offer his services as part of the Indian Premier League super-auction this week, opting to prioritise his international career instead

England test captain Ben Stokes says he opted out of the bidding in the Indian Premier League to prioritize playing international cricket in what he described as the “back end” of his career.

Stokes has represented Chennai Super Kings, Rajasthan Royals and Rising Pune Supergiant in the IPL with the Pune franchise buying him for Rs 14.5 crore ahead of IPL 2027.

For the upcoming match, England have handed debut to left-hander Jacob Bethell, who will bat at number three. The side currently sits at sixth place in the ongoing World Test Championship points table and are out of contention for reaching the final, to be held at Lord's next year.

Ben Stokes focusing on managing 'back end' of England career after IPL decision - Captain sat out of lucrative T20 tournament in bid to ease his workload

Ben Stokes has chosen to skip the IPL auction to prioritise his England career. By focusing on his physical health, he aims to play at a high level for as long as possible.

Ben Stokes admits he is managing "the back end of my career" after choosing to skip the Indian Premier League and prioritise his time in international cricket.

Captain Ben Stokes says he opted out of the Indian Premier League auction in order to prolong his England career.

Ben Stokes has revealed he did not to enter the IPL mega auction to strip back his playing commitments as he attempts to prolong the twilight of his career. Stokes was a notable omission from the list of 52 Englishmen signed up for the mega auction in Jeddah for the 2025 competition.