What Happened to Ben Stokes: Why is CSK All-Rounder Not Playing IPL 2023?

During the 24th match in the ongoing 16th season of the Indian Premier League at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Chennai Super Kings allrounder Ben Stokes is yet again unavailable tonight, for the highly-octane clash clash against the Royal Challengers Bangalore.

In what is expected to be a cracker of a high-scoring contest in what looks like a batting paradise, RCB skipper Faf du Plessis has along expected lines, opted to field first.

The necessity of how important a role Toss might play at this high-scoring venue was highlighted by CSK skipper MS Dhoni as well. “The toss does matter because this is a venue where it is difficult to contain batters in the second innings. And not to forget dew,” remarked Dhoni.

While the ‘Yellow Army’ do have the required batting personnel to post a humongous total batting first, a slew of injuries in the bowling department might as well cause Dhoni a headache not only tonight, but for the remainder of the season as well.

What Happened to Ben Stokes

Having returned with ordinary performances with the bat during CSK’s first two matches against Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, the franchise’s costliest-ever purchase at the auction table – Ben Stokes, is presently down with a toe injury and hence not match fit.

As per a report from Cricbuzz dated April 13, Stokes sustained a toe injury while bowling and will not be available until at least CSK’s match against Rajasthan Royals on April 27, in Jaipur.

“Ben is doing well, he is recovering fast, and should definitely be fit for the April 30 game,” CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan said. That is an afternoon match at the Chepauk against Punjab Kings. “He could even be ready earlier, maybe by the April 27 game,” the CSK official added while interacting with Cricbuzz.

Viswanathan however, did not specify whether Stokes picked up the injury while bowling the solitary Over versus LSG, or during a certain practice session.