Ben Stokes opts out of IPL 2025 mega auction, to be banned from 2026 auction

England Test captain Ben Stokes has opted out of the IPL 2025 mega auction. The 33-year-old last played an IPL match in 2023, when he represented CSK. He had pulled out of IPL 2024 to manage his workload and fitness. Stokes will now not be able to register in the following year's auction, as per the new IPL rules.