CSK star set to comeback from retirement to play in ODI World Cup 2023

It was earlier reported that England’s limited overs skipper Jos Buttler will talk to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) allrounder Ben Stokes himself to reverse his ODI retirement to play in the ODI World Cup 2023. As such, the news has seen some development since the initial report. A report in the Telegraph says that Ben Stokes is indeed set to come out from retirement and play in the marquee tournament slated to take place in India from October 5 to November 19.

“Stokes would be likely to bat in the middle order for England’s ODI side. Amid fears about how much bowling he could do, England are prepared to pick him as a specialist batsman – replicating the role that he performed at stages during this summer’s Ashes,” the Telegraph report stated. Notably, England’s title defence starts on the very first day of the tournament when they lock horns against the previous edition’s runners-up New Zealand in the opener on October 5. The opener, which is a rematch of the previous edition’s final is scheduled to be played in the largest cricket stadium, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Ben Stokes will risk playing in IPL 2024 with his decision to play in the ODI World Cup 2023

However, Ben Stokes’ decision comes at an opportunity cost. As he decides to play in the World Cup 2023, he might miss out on playing in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 where he plays for the five-time Champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Notably, after the conclusion of Ashes 2023, Stokes had said that he would be using his time off to treat the knee issue that has been troubling him for quite some time now. However, if he does play in the World Cup that will mean postponing his treatment. And that could hamper his plans of playing in the IPL. Before the IPL begins, England will travel to India for a Test series, led by Ben Stokes. Therefore, time for rest is really scarce for England’s red-ball captain.