Star all-rounder’s NZ arrival stokes Ashes talk

Ben Stokes has landed in New Zealand but still has some hurdles to clear if he is to return to playing cricket this weekend.

The controversial all-rounder remains unavailable for international selection after being suspended by the England and Wales Cricket Board for his involvement in a late-night brawl outside a Bristol nightclub which left a man hospitalised with facial injuries.

But the ECB has devised a plan to fast-track Stokes into the Ashes squad as quickly as possible, granting him a no objection certificate four days ago that frees him up to play domestic cricket anywhere he chooses.

The New Zealand-born Stokes arrived in Christchurch yesterday, where he was greeted by his parents Barbara and Gerard.

The 26-year-old insists the trip is for personal reasons, but his arrival has sparked speculation he could turn out for Canterbury as soon as Sunday while his England teammates are contesting the second Test in Adelaide. It starts Saturday.

Canterbury coach Gary Snead said the possibility of Stokes joining his team had only been raised in the past “three or four days” and still hadn’t been ratified by his own board let alone New Zealand cricket.

“Ultimately, if our board says no, it won’t happen,” Snead said.

“But if we agree to it then we’re hopeful New Zealand cricket (will as well) and it sounds like the ECB have given an NOC already.”

There is widespread speculation that Stokes will be parachuted into the England squad ahead of the third Ashes Test, beginning December 18 in Perth.