Ben Stokes has made a significant decision to focus entirely on Test cricket, stepping away from The Hundred 2025 edition to avoid any further injuries and to prepare for a crucial summer series against India. The England Test captain, who recently missed the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 due to a hamstring injury, is now concentrating on regaining full fitness for the five-match Test series against India.
As reported by ESPNCricinfo, Stokes, who was a part of the Northern Superchargers' men's team, consulted with the team’s coach, Andrew Flintoff, before announcing his withdrawal from the upcoming T20 competition. The decision comes after a string of injuries over the past year, including a hamstring issue during The Hundred last season that saw him miss both the home Test series against Sri Lanka and the opening Test against Pakistan. His injury flared up again in the third Test against New Zealand, requiring surgery.
STRATEGIC MOVE TO FOCUS ON LONG-FORM CRICKET
The Hundred, which is set to start on August 5, a day after the fifth Test match against India concludes, falls directly in the way of Stokes' fitness goals. Skipping the tournament is a precautionary measure, allowing Stokes to prevent any potential injuries ahead of the high-stakes Ashes 2025-26, which kicks off in Perth on November 21. By making this decision now, he ensures that his focus is undivided as England prepares for a massive Test series at home.
THE HUNDRED'S CHANGES AND STOKES' ABSENCE
The Hundred has undergone significant changes recently, particularly with the involvement of IPL franchises. Sun Group, the parent company of Sunrisers Hyderabad, will now be without Stokes in their squad. Mickey Arthur, the newly appointed director of cricket for Northern Superchargers, will have to find a replacement for the star all-rounder ahead of the season. Reports suggest that explosive South African batter David Miller is one of the top contenders for the role.
A SHIFT IN DOMESTIC CRICKET AND INTERNATIONAL PRIORITIES
Stokes' decision follows in the footsteps of several other high-profile players opting out of The Hundred. Moeen Ali recently announced his retirement from county cricket, while opening batter Alex Hales has confirmed he will not return to play for Trent Rockets. Hales is set to represent Knight Riders franchises in Major League Cricket (MLC) and the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), marking a shift in his domestic commitments.
In addition to Stokes' absence, Moeen Ali, a key figure in England's limited-overs setup, has also decided to retire from English domestic cricket, further indicating a shift towards prioritizing international formats and reducing involvement in franchise leagues.
CONCLUSION: PREPARING FOR THE
BIGGER CHALLENGES AHEAD
With the Ashes looming, Ben Stokes' decision to withdraw from The Hundred is a strategic one aimed at keeping him in peak physical condition for the demanding Test series against India and the subsequent Ashes tour. This move reflects the growing importance of Test cricket in Stokes' career, especially with the challenges that lie ahead on both home soil and overseas.
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