Ben Stokes has chosen to skip the IPL auction to prioritise his England career. By focusing on his physical health, he aims to play at a high level for as long as possible.

For the upcoming match, England have handed debut to left-hander Jacob Bethell, who will bat at number three. The side currently sits at sixth place in the ongoing World Test Championship points table and are out of contention for reaching the final, to be held at Lord's next year.

England test captain Ben Stokes says he opted out of the bidding in the Indian Premier League to prioritize playing international cricket in what he described as the “back end” of his career.