Ben Stokes explains why he opted out of IPL 2025 mega auction

England Test captain Ben Stokes chose not to participate in the IPL 2025 mega-auction held on November 24 and 25 in Jeddah. The new IPL rules mandated that registration for the mega-auction was essential for players wishing to participate in the next two editions of the tournament, posing a risk for those who opted out. However, Stokes expressed no concerns about missing the IPL, emphasising his commitment to prolonging his international career with England.

Speaking before the first Test against New Zealand, Ben Stokes acknowledged the advanced stage of his career and his desire to continue representing England for as long as possible. “There’s just so much cricket. I’m at the back end of my career and I want to play as long as I possibly can. Looking after my body and prioritising games is key to that,” he explained to BBC Test Match Special.

This year, Stokes is participating in South Africa’s SA20 league with MI Cape Town, reflecting his selective approach to playing commitments. “It’s about looking at what I’ve got ahead and making decisions that I think are right for me to prolong my career. I want to be wearing this England shirt for as long as I can,” Stokes added, highlighting his priorities.

Additionally, Stokes commended New Zealand for their recent 3-0 victory over India in India, recognizing the significance of such an achievement. England, having previously lost 4-1 to India in India, understood the challenge presented by such a feat. “You’ve got to appreciate what New Zealand were able to do in India. Even though we’re coming up against them, I think you’ve got to hold your hands up and give a huge amount of credit to New Zealand for going to India and achieving what they did,” Stokes remarked.

He further noted the impact of New Zealand’s victory on global cricket: “India have been such a force in their home conditions. A lot of teams around the world have gone there and wished they could have done the same thing but it’s a lot easier said than done. It was a huge thing for cricket in general, that a touring team has been able to go and get one over on India like that. I can’t remember a time when a team has been able to do that,” Ben Stokes concluded, lauding the monumental accomplishment by New Zealand.