Second stint for Stokes unlikely

Don’t expect a Ben Stokes Canterbury sequel.

The star allrounder could be set for a return to the international ranks after being confirmed by the England and Wales Cricket Board for the February-April tour of New Zealand.

Stokes, who hasn’t played for England since September 24, will appear in court on February 13 after he was charged with affray following an incident outside a Bristol nightclub. The 26-year-old has vowed to clear his name on the same day England’s tour begins with a Twenty20 tri-series match at Wellington’s Westpac Stadium.

The five match one-day international series, starting on February 25, may be a more likely timeframe for Stokes to link up with England.

Christchurch-born Stokes, whose parents, Gerard and Deb, live in the city, managed a preChristmas cameo for Canterbury, appearing in three 50-over matches and three T20s.

Canterbury Cricket said it was highly unlikely Stokes would have a second stint with the team in the lead up to the one-day series and two test matches.

There had been no discussions between Canterbury and Stokes’ representatives or England cricket officials.

With Black Caps Henry Nicholls, Tom Latham, Todd Astle and Matt Henry unwanted for the New Zealand T20 side, they will be available for Canterbury in the Ford Trophy 50-over competition. With those four players taking spots in the playing XI it is understood Canterbury would be reluctant for another contracted player to miss out to Stokes, should he be available.

There is also the issue of potentially playing Stokes into top form before facing New Zealand, something Auckland did in 2008 with English quick Jimmy Anderson as their overseas player. Anderson went on to destroy the Black Caps, taking seven wickets for the match in the second test in Wellington.

Defending Ford Trophy champions Canterbury lost their opening three 50-over matches, but will field a potent side when the competition resumes against Otago in Dunedin next Saturday.