Ben stoked to be back in running for selection
Controversial allrounder Ben Stokes has declared he can’t wait to get back on the field after being cleared for selection by the England and Wales Cricket Board despite being charged with affray.
Stokes was suspended by the ECB while under investigation by police for his involvement in an incident outside a England nightclub in September.
Earlier this week the Crown Prosecution Service charged Stokes (pictured) over the nightclub incident but yesterday the ECB confirmed he would now be considered for selection.
The New Zealand-born Stokes took to social media to express his delight with the decision.
“I’m extremely delighted to be given this opportunity to do this again,” he tweeted. “I can’t wait to get back out on a pitch.”
“Representing my country is one of the greatest things that I’ve ever been lucky enough to do, walking out on to the field with the England shirt on is a privilege and a honour.
Stokes is expected to return to England duty for February’s Twenty20 tri-series against Australia and New Zealand.
England coach Trevor Bayliss said Stokes would be a welcome inclusion in the side.
“I haven’t even had an opportunity to speak to him yet about what his program might be leading into that series,” Bayliss said.
“Everyone involved here with the team and squad of coaches are very happy that he’s now available again.”