Ben Stokes to play PSL 2027? England star in talks with teams

The premier England all-rounder, Ben Stokes, even after closing the door on international cricket after the third Test of the series against New Zealand at Trent Bridge in Nottingham, has opened up a new chapter of his career in franchise cricket around the world, as he could prove to be a star member of any side.

Stokes has collected overall 3027 runs in 148 innings of the T20 cricket at an average of 24.41 and a fine strike rate of 132.87, thanks to two centuries and 10 half-centuries at the best score of 107*, besides bagging 93 wickets in 121 innings at 30.91.

Ben Stokes is reportedly in discussions with Pakistan Super League franchises

Stokes, reportedly, has been in discussions with the Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchises over his participation in the 2027 season. Along with that, he has also held discussions with the Major League Cricket (MLC) teams for the 2027 season. Despite that, the ECB seems to be reluctant to grant him the NoC as he remains tied to the county.

Stokes’ association with the Durham side could prove to be a massive issue for his plans for franchise cricket. His central contract with the England side is cancelled at the end of September, following his international retirement in June. However, he is still registered as a Durham player.

Stokes, even after his international retirement, has played a few games for the Durham side and contributed significantly to their promotion from Division Two this summer. This problem is relevant for MLC, which is scheduled for June and July next year, clashing with England's domestic season.

Has Stokes ever played in the Pakistan Super League (PSL)?

Stokes has never played in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) before. The NOC of the ECB, meanwhile, doesn’t work with the Indian Premier League (IPL), where Stokes can return to action. He has played in 44 innings of the IPL and notched up 935 runs at an average of 24.60 and a strike rate of 133.95, with two fifties and as many centuries.

Stokes hasn’t played any T20 game since 2024 when he was part of The Hundred. He has already signed for the Adelaide Strikers in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2026/27 season, where he returns to action in Australia after a long time.

The PSL will try its best to complete Stokes’ signing, as it will only grow the craze for the tournament in the presence of the former England captain and a star all-rounder.