The IPL 2025 mega-auction, set to take place in Jeddah on November 24 and 25, has attracted a record 1,574 players, including 409 overseas and 1,165 Indian cricketers. However, one high-profile name missing from the roster is England’s red-ball captain, Ben Stokes. According to ESPN Cricinfo, Stokes has not registered for the auction, a decision that may lead to his exclusion from the IPL 2026 auction as well, thanks to a new BCCI rule.
Ben Stokes Misses IPL Auction Registration
Stokes, who missed the entire IPL 2024 season due to injuries, including a hamstring tear during The Hundred 2024, has chosen not to register for the IPL 2025 auction, prioritizing Test cricket as he aims to keep himself fit for England’s red-ball commitments. While his decision aligns with his Test-focused approach, it could have significant implications for his future participation in the IPL.
BCCI’s Revised Rule: Implications for Stokes
The BCCI recently revised its IPL rules, requiring overseas players to register for the mega-auction if they wish to participate in the following season’s mini-auction. This change aims to prevent marquee players from targeting mini-auctions, where bidding can escalate due to fewer high-profile players available. According to the new guidelines, players who skip the mega-auction are ineligible for the mini-auction the following year, unless exceptions are granted for injuries confirmed by their national cricket board.
“Any Overseas Player will have to register for the Big Auction. In case the overseas player doesn’t register, then he will be ineligible to register in the following year’s player auction,” the rule states.
Stokes’ Status Remains Uncertain
Ben Stokes has yet to comment on his unavailability for IPL 2025, leaving his fans uncertain about his participation in the league’s future editions. Meanwhile, the IPL 2025 auction is anticipated to be one of the most-watched events, with live broadcasts available on major sports networks and streaming platforms worldwide.