Ben Stokes is no longer part of England’s Ashes squad
Image courtesy of: Zimbio
Ben Stokes has been withdrawn from England’s Ashes squad as the investigation into his alleged street fight outside a nightclub in Bristol continues.
Stokes, who was initially included in the Ashes squad, was arrested in the early hours of September 25 on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm and ended up spending the night in police custody.
While Stokes retained the Test vice-captaincy and his central contract for the 2017/18 season, he has been replaced by pace bowler Steven Finn.
Three other players – Jonny Bairstow, Jake Ball and Liam Plunkett – were fined and received a formal warning for unprofessional conduct.
The trio have paid an undisclosed amount to the Professional Cricketers’ Association Benevolent Fund and the Hornsby Professional Cricketers’ Fund.
While the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that the matter regarding Bairstow, Ball and Plunkett has been resolved, the investigation into Stokes and opening batsman Alex Hales is still ongoing.
“With the Ashes just around the corner, it’s important to give the players, the coaching staff and supporters some clarity around a complex situation,” Andrew Strauss, England’s director of cricket, said via a release on the ECB website. “This decision will help us in the weeks ahead and give every player and the whole England set-up the best chance to focus on the challenge ahead in Australia.
“Steven is a high-quality cricketer, with considerable experience of both international cricket and Australian conditions. The Selectors believe he will add to the range of options and the squad will be further supported by the arrival of the Lions in Australia in November.
“We have spoken to Ben and assured him that our decision in no way prejudges the outcome of the ongoing Police investigation or Cricket Discipline Commission process, as can be seen by the award of Central Contracts.
“On these, I would like to congratulate all of those who have received England contracts for 2017/18, ahead of a busy year of International cricket.”