'I am going to the IPL' - Ben Stokes confirms participation for upcoming edition despite injury scare

The crowd in Wellington got their money's worth after hosts New Zealand and England played out one of the most entertaining Tests of the century as the visitors fell short by just one run in the second Test match of the series. England skipper Ben Stokes confirmed he will be available for IPL 2023 despite being seen struggling with a knee injury during the fourth innings of the match.

The English all-rounder was seen hobbling between the wickets during his crucial partnership with former skipper Joe Root in the fourth and final innings of the series. However, the Englishman, who was roped in by the Chennai Super Kings ahead of the 2023 edition, revealed that he had conversations with CSK head coach Stephen Fleming, who is aware of his injury concerns.

"I am going to the IPL. I have 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," Stokes said after the second Test in Wellington.

🗣️ Ben Stokes : 'I'm going to IPL'#WhistlePodu | #IPL2023 pic.twitter.com/FEPsmgBXvN

— CSK Fans Army™ (@CSKFansArmy) February 28, 2023

It’s incredibly frustrating knowing something has been holding me back: Stokes

Talking about his injury, Stokes revealed his frustration with not being able to perform up to his usual high standards. He bowled just two overs in the match and was seen in considerable pain during his batting innings. The dynamic cricketer is working with the backroom staff to fully assess his situation and is adamant about fulfilling his duties for the upcoming Ashes on home soil.

"I am not going to lie, it’s incredibly frustrating knowing something has been holding me back from performing as I’d like to. I have 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. I’ll be doing everything I can to give myself the best opportunity not to have to worry about it," he added.

For a better experience: Download the CricTracker app from the IOS App Store and Google Play Store