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Ben Stokes says he will leave IPL early to prepare for Ireland Test and Ashes series

Chennai Super Kings splurged a whopping Rs 16.25 to buy Stokes in IPL auction in December but they won't be able to have his services for the entire season. Stokes also missed the last two editions of the cash-rich league due to various reasons.Stokes made it clear that he will leave IPL early to lead his side in the one-off Ireland Test and prepare for the Ashes series.The IPL final is set to be played on May 28, four days before the one-off Ireland Test at Lord's on June 1, while the marquee Ashes series against Australia will begin on June 16.

England ride fifties to lead of 368 in first test

:England rode a trio of half centuries to a strong position with a lead of 368 runs after the second session on the third day of the day-night first test against New Zealand at Bay Oval on Saturday.

England vs New Zealand 1st Test Day 1 Live Score: Tourists Look To Cross 300-run Mark In 1st Innings

New Zealand vs England 1st Test Day 1 LIVE:Ben Duckett and Ollie Pope provided England as solid start on Day 1 of the first Test against New Zealand as Ben Stokes' men kicked-off the tour Down Under on Thursday. Zak Crawley departed for just 3 runs before Duckett and Pope stabilised the English ship. However, a string of quick wickets saw England lose the plot in the middle. Tim Southee has been New Zealand's most dangerous bowler, picking 2 wickets so far. The visitors, however, will still hope to put over 300 runs on the board. (LIVE Scorecard)