In a parallel move to his England teammate Ben Stokes, Joe Root has decided to skip the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2024, adding another high-profile name to the list of players opting out of the lucrative T20 tournament.
Stokes Sets the Trend
The trend began when Ben Stokes announced his unavailability for the IPL on November 23, citing the need to manage his workload and prioritize fitness. Now, Root follows suit, making it clear that managing player fitness and workload is becoming a critical factor for top-tier international players.
Root, a prominent England batter, played for the Rajasthan Royals in the previous edition of the IPL. However, his impact on the field was limited, featuring in three matches but having the chance to bat only once. Despite the brevity of his playing time, the Royals’ director of cricket, Kumar Sangakkara, expressed respect for Root’s decision and acknowledged the positive impact he had on the franchise.
Sangakkara praised Root’s influence within the team, stating, “Even in a short span of time, Joe was able to create such a positive impact on the franchise and the players around him. His energy around the group and the experience he brought to the Royals will be missed.” Root’s decision reflects a growing awareness of the toll extensive cricket commitments can take on players, prompting them to make mindful choices for their well-being.
Root’s Recent Cricketing Commitments
Root recently played a crucial role in England’s campaign in the T20 World Cup in India, participating in every game. With England gearing up for a demanding five-Test tour of India starting on January 25, Root’s decision to skip the IPL aligns with a need for rest and preparation for the upcoming challenges.
Rob Key, the managing director of men’s cricket at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), emphasized Root’s requirement for a “break” when he was excluded from the limited-overs squad for the upcoming series against West Indies. This strategic decision aims to ensure that Root remains in optimal condition for international duties, considering the packed cricketing calendar.
Root entered the IPL arena during the 2023 season, where he was purchased by the Rajasthan Royals for £100,000. Despite limited playing time, Root’s presence in the squad was seen as a positive influence, and his decision to withdraw from the 2024 edition will leave a void in the Royals’ setup.
