Big setback for defending champions Chennai Super Kings, star all-rounder unavailable for IPL 2024

The onus will be on Chennai Super Kings to defend their IPL crown when the tournament kickstarts next year. MS Dhoni guided CSK to their fifth IPL title this season and the former Indian skipper will be back to lead his team next season. The auction for the IPL 2024 is likely to be held in December in Dubai.

3 things you need to know

• CSK defeated Gujarat Titans to lift IPL 2023 title
• CSK have five IPL titles and are joint-most successful team
• MS Dhoni is likely to lead the Chennai-based outfit next season

CSK star will not be available next season

In a major development, CSK all-rounder Ben Stokes will not be seen in the IPL 2024. The English international was involved in a couple of matches in the last season and was expected to honour his commitments this time. But CSK have now announced that the player will not be a part of the next campaign.

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CSK issued a statement, "England Test captain, all-rounder Ben Stokes has made himself unavailable for IPL 2024 to manage his workload and fitness.

"Stokes, 32, became a part of the Super Kings ahead of the successful IPL 2023.

"He recently participated in the ODI World Cup 2023, which he came out of retirement for.

“The Chennai Super Kings management is supportive of Ben in his decision to manage his workload with England playing a 5-Test series in India before the IPL and then the T20 World Cup in June 2024.”

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Stokes also took some time before committing himself fully to the ODI World Cup this year as he skipped the first three matches in order to manage his injuries. The 32-year-old's absence means CSK will have the option to opt for a replacement in the next campaign.

Ahead of the IPL, Stokes is expected to lead the Three Lions to a Test series against the Indian Cricket Team.