England’s star all-rounder Ben Stokes has opted out of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 selection.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed Strokes’ decision, on Tuesday.
The England Test captain’s is currently focused to gain full bowling fitness for the upcoming summer, which includes two three-match Test series against West Indies and Sri Lanka.
However, he has also opted out of selection for all cricket in the future.
“I’m working hard and focusing on building my bowling fitness back up to fulfil a full role as an all-rounder in all formats of cricket,” Strokes said.
“Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice that allows me to be the all-rounder I want to be for the foreseeable future.
“The recent Test tour of India highlighted how far behind I was from a bowling point of view after my knee surgery and nine months without bowling.”
However, Strokes is looking forward to playing for Durham in the County Championship before the start of their Test summer.