Ben Stokes Withdraws from T20 World Cup 2024
England’s star all-rounder, Ben Stokes, has announced his decision to withdraw from the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, according to a statement from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday, 2 April.
Stokes, who also captains the England Test team, is currently focusing on achieving full bowling fitness. His goal is to be prepared not only for the forthcoming summer, which includes two three-match Test series against West Indies and Sri Lanka, but also for all future cricket engagements.
Stokes delivered an impressive all-round performance for England at the T20 World Cup 2022.
Speaking about 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.”
Stokes further added, “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.”
Stokes concluded by wishing his teammates good luck, saying, “I wish Jos (Buttler), Motty (Matthew Mott) and all the team the best of luck in defending our title.”
Stokes hit six fours and six sixes on his way to a century.
Despite grappling with knee issues throughout the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, Stokes made a remarkable return to England’s squad, coming out of ODI retirement to join the mega-event.
After the World Cup, Stokes underwent knee surgery and marked his return during England’s five-match Test series against India earlier this year. Despite his limited bowling, Stokes made a memorable comeback during the final Test, clinching the wicket of his counterpart Rohit Sharma with an exquisite delivery.
England, the defending champions of the upcoming T20 World Cup, owe their previous victory to Stokes, who hit the winning runs in the final against Pakistan. His composed 49-ball 52* led England to victory.
Stokes scored a 49-ball 52* to help England win their second ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title against Pakistan in Melbourne.
England will begin their campaign on 4 June against Scotland in Barbados. They are placed in Group B and will face stiff competition from Australia, Namibia, and Oman in their quest for success.