England all-rounder Chris Woakes says Ben Stokes is still a world-class player despite his poor IPL form. 

Stokes has not shown his million-dollar worth for the Rajasthan Royals this campaign. The England all-rounder has had a measly return for the side who paid $1.97 million to secure his services. 

He managed only one half-century as he scored 185 with an average of 16.81 throughout the tournament. He also failed in the wickets department too, only taking three wickets in 11 games. 

But according to his England team-mate and Royal Challengers Bangalore all-rounder Chris Woakes, Stokes could still be a major player this season. 

‘He is a world-class player,’ Woakes told reporters on Friday.

‘Probably has not played as well as he would have liked throughout the tournament but I never write him off.

‘There’s still four games left and more if they qualify. He’s a fantastic player. If you slip off your game against him, he will punish you.’ 

Stokes, usually a middle/lower order batsman, was asked to open the batting in the Rajasthan Royals’ much-needed victory against the Chennai Super Kings on Friday, but only managed 11 during their chase of 177.

His compatriot, Jos Buttler, stole the headlines scoring a 60-ball 95 to keep the Royals in the hunt for a playoff spot. 

Buttler said the switch was due to a hamstring issue. 

‘[Rajasthan mentor] Shane Warne sort of said “why don’t you go at the top and play with some freedom and try and see if that comes off” because he felt like he was going to find it hard in the middle with his running,’ explained Buttler.

ALSO READ: Buttler heroics keep Royals alive

Photo: Martin Rickett/PA Wire.