Both Hales and Stokes get nod for ODI squad

BEN Stokes and Alex Hales have both been named in England’s one-day squad to face Australia – despite Stokes still being unavailable for selection.

The all-rounder has not played since being arrested following an incident outside a Bristol nightclub in September.

He is not available for selection until the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) decides whether to charge him.

Opening bat Hales will not face criminal charges for his involvement in the Bristol incident, but both could still be disciplined by the ECB.

England coach Trevor Bayliss said: “It will be good. They are two quality players in a successful one-day team over the last two years.

“I am sure there will be scrutiny.We won't know until it comes along.We have got to adjust to that at some stage.”

Even if Hales is cleared to play, there’s no guarantee he will be selected in the XI for the opening clash in Melbourne on January 14.

Jason Roy and Jonny Bairstow are both in the squad and could be the opening pair, with Sam Billings also being named.

Eoin Morgan’s side ended the summer with Roy and Bairstow opening the innings with the latter scoring an unbeaten 141 in his last ODI.

Bayliss added: “The two openers we had did very well. We could bring him [Hales] in and drop one of those guys and someone else will be upset.

“Jonny and Jason have played well at top of the order so I can’t see any changes there.”