Warner slams banned Stokes

DAVID WARNER today accused Ben Stokes of failing his country as Australians talk up the chance of the England all-rounder making a dramatic Ashes return, writes Tom Collomosse.

The 26-year-old is banned after he was arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm during a late-night brawl in Bristol in September.

However, Stokes has posted a video on Instagram (above) showing him bowling at full tilt at Durham, fuelling rumours he could fly out if he is not charged.

“It’s disappointing for the England team and the country,” said Warner. “He’s let a lot of people down. I’d have loved for him to be out here, because I know what a competitor he is, and a world-class player. It’s obviously up to the English police first, to think that’s right.

“He knows he’s made a mistake and it’s about him getting that respect back from his (fellow) players and countrymen. If he does come out here, we wish him well and hope he brings the fieriness to the cricket.”

Warner was suspended by Australia in 2013 after he punched England skipper Joe Root on a night out.

is potentially devastating, their batting is flimsy and their quick bowlerswlers sus-susceptible to injury.

“You still get nervous,” Cookok admit-admitted. “Seeing it again bringsngs back some good and bad memoriesories and you’re unsure what the weekk is going to be like.

“But these occasions are whathat drive you on when you’re doing all the training in the dark hours at Chelms-helmsford, or in the gym when it’s prettypretty dull and boring — but then you get your moment here. We’ve prepared thoroughly as a side and I hopepe we can go out and play well.”