‘Jo CSK main perform na kar paye..’ – Fans react to news that Chennai Super Kings are likely to release Ben Stokes before IPL 2024 auction

Defending IPL Champions Chennai Super Kings are set to release Ben Stokes as per reports doing the rounds. The five-time winners had broken the bank to acquire the services of the English test skipper ahead of the IPL 2023 season.

This move doesn’t come as a shock or surprise to the CSK fans who saw Ben Stokes play just two games last year. The England all-rounder suffered an injury and despite gaining his fitness did not get back into the side.

MS Dhoni-led his Chennai Super Kings to their fifth title win after beating Gujarat Titans in the final. The match was an emotional roller-coaster as Ravindra Jadeja hit a final ball four to seal the title win for the men in yellow.

Ben Stokes set to be released by Chennai Super Kings –

Five-time IPL winners CSK have given indications that Ben Stokes is on his way out of the CSK dugout. The England superstar cost the Chennai team a massive INR 16.25 Crores during the IPL 2023 auctions last December.

A source from the CSK Team said to CRICBUZZ “We would not consider releasing Stokes if he could be available because he is such a big match player, and we hold him in the highest regard. But if he can’t make it to the season, we have blocked INR 16 Crores with which we could acquire some quality players”

As per the reports, Kiwi quick Lockie Ferguson could also be released by Kolkata Knight Riders. The right-arm fast bowler is set to play against India in the ODI World Cup 2023 semi-final in Mumbai on Wednesday.

The reason for Ferguson’s likely release is because of his history with injuries. Jofra Archer’s latest injury setback could make Mumbai Indians rethink their strategy. The 28-year-old was bought for INR 8 Crores during the IPL 2022 auction and missed the entire season.

During the IPL 2023 season, Jofra Archer again got injured and was replaced by his English teammate Chris Jordan. If the men in blue and gold release Archer, they could be one of the teams keen to buy either Mitchell Starc or Pat Cummins.

The Australian skipper has thrown his name into the hat and made himself available for the IPL 2024 auctions to be held in Dubai on the 19^th of December.

Here’s how the fans reacted –