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The Indian Premier League (IPL) recently unveiled that 1,574 players have registered for the 2025 auction, set to take place in Jeddah on November 24 and 25. This list, featuring 1,165 Indian and 409 overseas players, promises a pool of dynamic talent ready to vie for contracts in the world’s most popular T20 tournament. However, one notable absence has sent ripples through the cricket community: England’s charismatic Test captain, Ben Stokes, who has decided to sit out the IPL 2025 auction pool.
Impact on franchises’ plans and captaincy potential
Stokes’ absence could reshape the plans of several IPL franchises that might have considered him for his all-round abilities and leadership. Known for his clutch performances and on-field intensity, Stokes brings not only power-hitting and effective bowling but also unmatched fielding skills. Additionally, he has often been viewed as a potential captaincy candidate for IPL teams. However, Stokes opted out of IPL 2024 to manage his workload and fitness, a decision he seems to have extended into 2025.
Moreover, recent IPL rule changes mean that overseas players who skip the mega auction are also ineligible for the subsequent mini auctions, barring exceptions granted for injury or medical conditions certified by their home board. So, Stokes’ absence from the 2025 mega auction effectively locks him out of the IPL 2025 season. While Stokes hasn’t provided a specific reason, here are possible factors that might have influenced his decision.
Also READ: 3 teams who can target Shreyas Iyer in the IPL 2025 mega auction
3 reasons why Ben Stokes did not register in IPL 2025 auction
1. Focus on Test cricket and national commitments
As the captain of England’s Test team, Stokes carries immense responsibility in the longer format. After England’s disappointing series loss against Pakistan, his attention is firmly on rebuilding and steering his team to success in their upcoming Test campaigns, including the Ashes series scheduled for next year. With a packed schedule and significant Test challenges ahead, Stokes may have chosen to focus exclusively on his national duties to prepare both physically and mentally for these marquee contests. The decision underscores his commitment to England’s Test ambitions, particularly at a time when England needs strong leadership.
2. Managing workload and ensuring fitness
Stokes’ history with injuries has been well-documented, and maintaining peak fitness is critical for his demanding role as an all-rounder. The IPL season is not only intense but also entails a substantial travel schedule, which can place added strain on players with existing injury concerns. In IPL 2024, Stokes stepped back from the tournament to manage his body, balancing his fitness with the heavy demands of international cricket. It’s likely that he’s continuing with a similar approach, choosing rest and recovery over the physically demanding IPL season. This decision also allows him more control over his training and conditioning routines, essential for a player with his workload.
3. Inconsistent performances in IPL
Despite his reputation and success in international cricket, Stokes has had mixed results in the IPL. In his 43 matches in the tournament, he’s managed 920 runs with two centuries and two fifties, and taken 28 wickets—respectable, but not necessarily reflective of his all-round prowess. While he’s secured high-value contracts over the years, he has struggled with consistency in the IPL format. This inconsistency may have factored into his decision, as he may prefer focusing on formats where he’s seen more reliable success. Additionally, Stokes may feel that foregoing the tournament allows him to focus on formats where his skills have a greater impact, like Test and ODI cricket.
