With less than a month left before the 17th IPL auction, several sources have hinted at a potential release of Stokes by CSK. According to a Cricbuzz report, the franchise is mulling over parting ways with the all-rounder due to his likely unavailability because of a persistent knee injury which he is set to have surgery on before leading England in a Test series in India early next year.

CSK opted for the service of Stokes in the previous mini-auction for a staggering 16.35 crore INR. Although the side managed to win their record-equalling fifth IPL title to match with Mumbai Indians, Stokes hardly played a role, featuring in only two games in the entire season. His upcoming knee surgery combined with an estimated recovery period of two months means CSK are up against a tough call to make.

A top CSK official reportedly revealed their plans on Stokes: “We would not consider releasing Stokes if he could be available because he is a big match player, and we hold him in the highest regard. But if he can’t make it to the season, we will have blocked Rs 16 crore with which we could acquire some quality players.”

However, a contradicting report by Sportstar dismissed all the speculations surrounding Stokes, claiming top sources in the franchise confirmed that “only Dhoni will take a call” on the decision after meeting with the owners and the management on November 20. The report also stated that CSK have been in constant touch with Stokes’ manager. However, his availability for the entire season is yet to be confirmed.

The 2024 IPL auction will take place at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai on December 19. Each team is allowed to participate with a purse of 100 crore INR – a rise from last year’s purchasing capacity of 95 crore INR.