Ben Stokes has ruled himself out of the T20 World Cup in June, telling England’s management that he does not want to be considered for selection for their title defence.

Stokes hit the winning run in the 2022 final as England beat Pakistan by five wickets at the MCG.

He reportedly said that missing the World Cup was “a sacrifice”.

Last year, Stokes delayed a knee surgery last year in order to play in the 50-over World Cup and has also opted out of the ongoing IPL.

In a statement he said, “I’m working hard and focusing on building my bowling fitness back up to fulfill a full role as an all-rounder in all formats of cricket. Opting out of the IPL and the World Cup will hopefully be a sacrifice that allows me to be the all-rounder I want to be for the foreseeable future.”

He added, “The recent Test tour of India highlighted how far behind I was from a bowling point of view after my knee surgery and nine months without bowling. I’m looking forward to playing for Durham in the County Championship before the start of our Test summer.”

Stokes was only able to bowl five overs during England’s recent 4-1 Test series defeat to India.