Bayliss hits out at ‘unprofessional’ conduct

Ben Stokes will continue as England’s vice-captain after being named in their Ashes squad despite his arrest on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm and a broken finger on his right hand.

England coach Trevor Bayliss has described the circumstances which led to Stokes’ arrest in Bristol on Monday as “very unprofessional.”

Bayliss was unimpressed that Stokes and other players were out celebrating England’s Royal London Series win over West Indies.

Opener Alex Hales was one of those players and like Stokes, missed yesterday’s fourth match of the series.

Stokes was released without charge, but remains under investigation.

After Stokes was nonetheless confirmed in a 16-man Ashes squad – also notable for the inclusion of three uncapped players and the return of James Vince at the expense of Tom Westley – Bayliss spelled out he is far from happy with players being out until after 2.30am.

Asked that question, he told Sky Sports Cricket: “Definitely not. They are professionals. The other night a few guys being out was very unprofessional in the middle of a series.”

England and Wales Cricket Board director Andrew Strauss confirmed Stokes’ injury is unlikely to prevent him leaving for the Ashes with the rest of Joe Root’s squad on October 28.

National selector James Whitaker has explained, meanwhile, the reasons for the returns of Vince and fellow batsman Gary Ballance, as well as the inclusions of uncapped trio Ben Foakes, Mason Crane and Craig Overton.

Of Vince, Whitaker said: “He’s the best option, and we’ve got every confidence his game will suit Australian conditions.

As for Ballance, he added: “He’s aware of vulnerabilities. Like everyone else, no one’s perfect, but we believe Gary’s got a toughness of character that can thrive in those conditions and support the captain.”

Somerset seamer Overton was picked after Mark Wood failed to convince England he is yet over his heel injury.