Hales devastated at World Cup dumping

England’s Alex Hales says he’s devastated at being axed from England’s provisional World Cup squad, as his management company claimed the batsman was given assurances that would not be the case.

Hales was included in the preliminary 15-man party but last week’s revelation that he had been suspended for an off-field incident not related to cricket put his involvement in considerable doubt.

England say they have “considered what is in the best interests of the team . . . to ensure they are free from any distractions” in dropping Hales from all squads ahead of the international season.

The 30-year-old is therefore set to miss the one-off ODI against Ireland and the limited-overs series against Pakistan which follows, as well as the World Cup.

Hales’ representatives said in a statement they were “hugely disappointed” by the decision to dump him.

“Nobody is seeking to excuse Alex’s behaviour in this instance. He absolutely acknowledges and recognises he made a huge mistake,” read the statement. “But as part of the ongoing process, both he and his representatives have been involved in many conversations with senior members of the ECB over the past few weeks where Alex has apologised profusely for his actions.

“The ECB insisted on Alex taking certain rehabilitation measures following his suspension. In line with the ECB and PCA guidelines, those measures must remain confidential.

“At every stage, Alex fulfilled his obligations and both he and his representatives were given assurances that any suspension — again under the ECB’s guidelines — could not affect his selection for the World Cup.

“It is unfortunate that a confidential matter made it to the public arena but even before the publication of the story, Alex had again spoken to key members of the England organisation to express his regret and contrition.

“At that time, he again took away the message his World Cup place would be judged on playing merit. The fact all those assurances seem to have been rendered meaningless has understandably left Alex devastated.”