England delay Stokes decision

Cricket365
October 6, 2017

England have yet to decide if allrounder Ben Stokes will play in the Ashes series that gets underway in November.

The ECB have however added Steven Finn to the squad and declared that Stokes will not travel with the team.

An investigation into the matter will determine whether Stokes will join his England Teammates in Australia.

This follows Stokes’ alleged involvement in a street brawl in Bristol after an ODI against the West Indies.

Jonny Bairstow, Jake Ball and Liam Plunkett were also handed fines for unprofessional behavior having joined Stokes and Alex Hales on their night out.

England stopped short of stripping Stokes and Hales of their ECB central contracts that were announced this week.

Director of England Cricket Andrew Strauss said: “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.

“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.”