The first match of IPL 2023 is scheduled to be played between Gujarat Titans and Chennai Super Kings. However, before the match, some concerning news has emerged for Chennai Super Kings that may impact their chances of winning the title. It has been announced that Ben Stokes, has been appointed as the team’s new captain. However, due to an injury sustained during the series against New Zealand, he will only be able to bat during this tournament and is not fully fit for bowling.
According to reports shared by the team’s head coach, Mike Hussey, Ben Stokes suffered a knee injury during the series against New Zealand. While the injury was initially thought to have been cured, it has since resurfaced, and Ben Stokes did not bowl during the practice match played on Monday.
His fitness report has subsequently delivered a significant blow to the team, as he was included in the team after the franchise spent a considerable amount of money on him.
Overall, this injury has emerged as a significant concern for the Chennai Super Kings’ team management. They will need to carefully consider how they utilise Ben Stokes’ skills during the tournament, given his fitness limitations.
According to the team’s coach, Mike Hussey,Stokes had an injection in his knee and will need to be carefully managed during the tournament. The Chennai Super Kings’ team management is working closely with the ECB physios to manage Stokes’ injury, and they anticipate that he will not be able to bowl for the first few matches of the tournament, which could be a few weeks.
There are concerns that Stokes’ injury may force him to return home during the tournament, which could pose a significant problem for the Chennai Super Kings. Stokes is also the captain of the England team, which is set to play the Ashes Test series against Australia after the IPL 2023.
He wants to remain fit for this big series, which may be a factor in his decision not to bowl during the tournament. Overall, the Chennai Super Kings’ team management will need to carefully manage Stokes’ fitness and ensure that he can contribute to the team’s success during the tournament.
