Ben Stokes linked with T20 franchise return after Test retirement

Former England captain Ben Stokes could return to T20 franchise cricket after announcing his retirement from Test matches. The all-rounder has not played in any T20 league since focusing on the Test format in recent years. Multiple franchises have expressed interest in signing Stokes for the upcoming season.

Stokes averaged 36.21 in 107 Tests and took 198 wickets with his medium-pace bowling. His availability for T20 cricket depends on his fitness and England commitments in limited-overs formats. The 34-year-old has previously played in the IPL and The Hundred.

Franchises view Stokes as a proven performer who combines batting firepower with useful bowling options. No formal announcement has been made regarding his participation in any league.