IPL 2020: Ben Stokes Confirms Availability Despite Coronavirus Scare
Published - 26 Mar 2020, 01:46 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 12:04 AM
Unperturbed by the novel coronovirus, premier England all-rounder Ben Stokes has confirmed his availability for IPL 2020. Though Stokes ha confirmed his availability, the clouds of uncertainty still hover over the lucrative tournament, as it can well be called off after a 21-day lockdown was imposed on the country.
The 21-day lockdown means the IPL, which was deferred to get underway from April 15, is unlikely to get underway from its rescheduled date.
My next competitive cricket will be IPL: Ben Stokes
Ben Stokes, who was brought by Rajasthan Royals, ahead of the previous edition said that the IPL will be the next tournament he will be participating in. Before Stokes, England opener Tom Banton had confirmed his presence for the tournament. Banton will ply his trade for Kolkata Knight Riders.
“At the moment my next competitive cricket is going to be in the IPL,” Stokes told BBC.
Cannot take three weeks off before IPL: Ben Stokes
Stokes is not letting it lose before IPL amid uncertainties. He wants to be in a position where he is physically fit to play the tournament. “That hasn’t changed yet so I have to think I will be playing on April 20,” Stokes said.
“I have to get my head round that I am playing even though in the back of my mind I know I am probably not. I have to build up and get myself physically in a position that if it does happen I am good to go.
“I cannot take three weeks off and expect the body to be ready for April 20 because it doesn’t work like that. It might happen and if it does I don’t want to be behind.
“There will be a lot of advice given to us and if it was an option to go we will have to take the sensible one.”
