Ben Stokes will go for huge money in IPL 2023 auction: Eoin Morgan

Former England captain Eoin Morgan said Ben Stokes will be one of the most expensive buys at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 auction on Friday in Kochi, adding that the England Test captain will not just bring leadership skills but an incredible amount of experience in high-pressure situations.

Eoin Morgan, who was part of a pre-IPL 2023 auction show on Jio Cinema, bought Ben Stokes for Punjab Kings, saying that the former finalists will be benefited by his presence. Stokes was last sold at an IPL auction for Rs 12.5 crore by Rajasthan Royals in 2018 and the England star is likely to command as much money, if not more in Kochi on Friday.

"Ben Stokes is crucial not only with his leadership, we have seen that with England Test team lately and his performances in white-ball cricket over the years but he brings a huge amount of experience under



pressure. And I think Punjab Kings this year will need that at forefront of their campaign.

"He is a magnificent leader. Talking about leader in the dressing room, you don't have to have the captain's armband," he added.

Furthermore, Morgan said Stokes will go for big money despite doubts over his availability for the business end of IPL 2023.

England will prepare for the Ashes next year with a Test against Ireland from June 1.

"In the back of the mind, England's first Test pre-Ashes is against Ireland from Junee 1. So you would expect him to miss a little bit at the backend. But if he can get you to that stage of the tournament and then leaves, the impact on the change room will be huge, he can build confidence and get to the business end.

"I think he will go for huge money," Morgan said.