England’s Ben Stokes opts out of T20 World Cup 2024

All-rounder Ben Stokes has stated that he does not want to be considered for selection for the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2024, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said.

The England Test captain’s focus is currently to gain full bowling fitness for not just the upcoming summer, which includes two three-match Test series against West Indies and Sri Lanka respectively, but all cricket in the future.

Commenting on 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.”

“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.”

“I wish Jos (Buttler), Motty (Matthew Mott) and all the team the best of luck in defending our title.”

The 2024 T20 World Cup will be held in the West Indies and the United States in June.