IPL 2018: Conviction of Ben Stokes leaves franchises perplexed ahead of auctions

English all-rounder Ben Stokes is having a troubled time ever since his name sprung up in the Bristol brawl in September last year. He lost his coveted Ashes berth and was left out of the national side. Now, when another big opportunity beckoned his way in the form of IPL 2018 auctions, the troubled waters seem to have risen to a new level.

Recently, Ben Stokes was charged for affray in the same brawl in Bristol. His participation in the ongoing and the upcoming England series has certainly come to an end with the verdict announced. Now, it remains to be seen how his future unfolds on the cricket field. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) had earlier announced that they will decide on Stokes’ future within 48 hours once the Police give their verdict.

And now, with the Police charging Stokes for his involvement, the media is waiting for their call. Recently, the IPL franchises expressed their views on the entire seen. The reports suggest that the franchises are closely following all the developments in the case.

“It all depends on what decision ECB takes. If they pull him off from all competitions, it will be a massive blow for the IPL. We will keep one eye on what’s happening at ECB. Stokes is one of the most valued players at the auction and every team will be looking to have him,” a franchisee official told mid-day.

NOC to play IPL

While the ECB has withdrawn Stokes’ name from the England squad for the assignments in Australia and England, they have been clear in quoting that they do not mind Ben Stokes participating elsewhere. They had granted an NOC to him to play in New Zealand domestic cricket recently. Hence, an IPL NOC could well be on the cards. Meanwhile, Stokes has made it clear that his focus remains on the game.

Replaying to his conviction by the Police and the subsequent announcement made by them, Ben Stokes told his Twitter followers that he is “keen to have an opportunity to clear my name but, on advice, the appropriate time to do this is when the case comes to trial. Until then, my focus is very much on cricket.”

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