Images of Ben Stokes’ arrival in Mumbai amid his injury sparked rumours of a possible late link-up with the franchise in the ongoing Indian Premier League.
England skipper Stokes, who injured his hamstring during the New Zealand series last year, has not played any professional cricket since the second Test at Hamilton. He is also expected to miss the Hundred later this year and is unlikely to play for Durham in the County Championship as he aims to recover in time for the five-match Test series against India.
Will Stokes play for Mumbai Indians?
However, Stokes was in the news recently after his presence in Mumbai sparked speculation about a possible link with the Mumbai Indians and the IPL. According to social media chatter, the 33-year-old reportedly visited Mumbai to meet the MI officials, which included an interaction with Akash Ambani, the son of Mumbai Indians’ owner Mukesh Ambani. Stokes also signed up with MI Cape Town for the 2025 SA20, but did not play because of injury.
It has been clarified that Stokes’ visit is purely commercial and not connected to cricket.
Why was Ben Stokes visiting India?
Stokes, who did not register for the IPL 2025 mega-auction, is ineligible to feature in the current IPL season. As per BCCI rules, players must enroll in the auction to participate in the league, making him unavailable for any franchise this season. Stokes will also not be able to register in the 2026 mini player auction, according to the recent IPL regulations.
An ECB spokesperson confirmed that Stokes travelled to India for a promotional shoot organised by a brand. Along with former England captain and broadcaster Nasser Hussain, he was flown to Aamby Valley, a private township near Mumbai, for a three-day commercial assignment.
Along with Hussain and Stokes, India wicketkeeper KL Rahul also participated in the shoot. The Delhi Capitals player was flown in by helicopter after obtaining permission from his franchise. With a five-day gap between matches, Rahul’s involvement did not affect his IPL commitments.
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