Ben Stokes outlines decision to return to cricket: "I was able to get on the plane with my parents' love"

The England allrounder has travelled to the United Arab Emirates for the Indian Premier League after leaving him family in New Zealand

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Ben Stokes has revealed how speaking with his family led to him travelling to the United Arab Emirates for the Indian Premier League

The England allrounder has been in New Zealand since August as his father Ged receives treatment for brain cancer.

Over the weekend, Stokes flew to Dubai ahead of representing Rajasthan Royals in the 13th edition of the world's premier franchise competition.

"Sitting in a hotel room in quarantine once again after leaving New Zealand is not how I thought I would be arriving at the IPL, but here I am and all things considered, I'm in a good place," Stokes, who is quarantining for six days before joining up with teammates, told The Daily Mirror.

"Saying goodbye to my dad, my mum and my brother in Christchurch was tough. It has been a difficult time for us as a family, but we've pulled together and supported each other as best we can.

"And I was able to get on the plane with my parents' love and blessing after we reached the decision, for me to get back playing, as a family with no external influences."

Quarantine before the storm. 😉#HallaBol | #RoyalsFamily | @benstokes38 pic.twitter.com/AaWf1h9lQo

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) October 4, 2020

Stokes played four Tests for England during the summer before returning to his homeland for family reasons, missing the remainder of the schedule.

Father Ged was first admitted to hospital last December during England's tour of South Africa, before being permitted to travel back to New Zealand in the New Year.

The 29-year-old added: "My dad was also very strong on the responsibilities I have. He told me I have a duty to do the job that I do and I have a duty as a husband and father as well.

"We gave it all a lot of thought and talked it over at length, and we came to a decision that now sees me back focusing on the game and then I'll be heading home to Clare and the kids."

The Royals are hopeful that Stokes will be ready to make his bow in the competition this Sunday (October 11) against Sunrisers Hyderabad. He underwent his first test for COVID-19 the day after arriving in the UAE.

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