The Chennai Super Kings (CSK) franchise has received a major boost ahead of the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. The news is that star all-rounder Ben Stokes will be available for the entire tournament. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to Stokes. Thus, allowing him to play in the IPL without any restrictions.
Stokes’ participation in the IPL 2023 season was uncertain due to the busy international schedule. Which includes a home series against Pakistan and an Ashes tour in Australia. However, the ECB’s decision to grant the NOC means that Stokes will be able to join CSK for the entire tournament. Which is great news for both the franchise and the fans.
Ben Stokes – A Game-Changer for Chennai Super Kings
Ben Stokes is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after all-rounders in world cricket at present. The Englishman’s explosive batting and consistent bowling have made him a game-changer in all formats of the game. Stokes had been an integral part of the Rajasthan Royals franchise in the IPL. Where he has delivered some memorable performances over the years.
However, in the IPL 2023 season, Stokes will be playing for the Chennai Super Kings. The franchise, which is captained by MS Dhoni, has been one of the most successful teams in IPL history. They have won the tournament three times. With the addition of Stokes, CSK’s chances of winning the title for the fourth time have increased significantly.
Ben Stokes’ Impact on CSK’s Squad
Stokes’ inclusion in the CSK squad will provide much-needed balance and depth to the team. With his all-round abilities, Stokes can slot in at any position in the batting order and can also contribute with the ball. Stokes is also an excellent fielder, which adds to his value as a player.
CSK’s squad already boasts of some of the biggest names in world cricket, including MS Dhoni, Suresh Raina, Ravindra Jadeja, Faf du Plessis, and Imran Tahir. With the addition of Stokes, the team’s batting and bowling line-up will become even stronger. Stokes’ presence will also provide some much-needed experience to the CSK squad, which has a number of young players.
Ben Stokes’ Record in IPL
Stokes has a decent record in the IPL, having played 51 matches and scored 920 runs at an average of 23.15. He has also picked up 61 wickets at an average of 27.64. Stokes’ best season in the IPL came in 2017 when he scored 316 runs and picked up 12 wickets in 12 matches for the Rising Pune Supergiant. His performances helped the team reach the final, where they lost to Mumbai Indians.
Stokes will be hoping to replicate his 2017 form for the Chennai Super Kings in the IPL 2023 season. His presence in the team will undoubtedly boost CSK’s chances of winning the tournament.
All-rounder Abilities
One of the biggest strengths of Ben Stokes is his ability to contribute to all aspects of the game. As a batsman, he can score runs quickly and can play big innings when the team needs it the most. As a bowler, he can bowl quick and hostile spells and can pick up crucial wickets at important junctures of the game. In the field, he is a livewire and can save crucial runs for his team.
Stokes’ all-around abilities make him a valuable asset for any team and Chennai Super Kings will be looking to utilize his services to the fullest in IPL 2023. With his availability for the entire season, Chennai Super Kings will have more flexibility in their team selection and will be able to play him in various positions based on the match situation.
Conclusion
Ben Stokes’ availability for the entire IPL 2023 season is a big boost for Chennai Super Kings. His all-rounder abilities and experience make him a valuable asset for any team and Chennai Super Kings will be looking to utilize his services to the fullest. With his mentorship and guidance, the young players in the team will also benefit and improve their game. Stokes’ impact on the games he played cannot be ignored and he will be looking to improve his IPL record in the upcoming season. Overall, his presence in the team will make Chennai Super Kings a stronger unit and a formidable opponent for any team in IPL 2023.
