STOKES ON RED ALERT
England could fast track Ben for Ashes if he gets all-clear
ENGLAND last night indicated Ben Stokes could be parachuted into the Ashes within 48 hours of any decision by the police not to charge him following his Bristol arrest.
No decision has been made regarding the police investigation and yesterday they could not give a timescale.
But speculation was mounting last night that the all-rounder was getting ready to play some part in the series
Down Under after he flew from Heathrow to Christchurch, left.
Initial suggestions from the ECB maintained it is a private trip to see his family, who live in the city.
Yet it subsequently emerged he has been given a No Objection Certificate from them to play domestic cricket for Canterbury in Christchurch, starting with a 50-over game against Otago at the Rangiora Oval on Sunday.
England had also insisted on Monday that there was “no change” in Stokes’ situation but that was inaccurate given they issued him with an NOC (official approval from a player’s home board to participate overseas) from the ECB on Friday last week.
Stokes is currently suspended from playing for England following his arrest. He is also likely to face a Cricket Disciplinary Committee (CDC) sanction once it is known whether he will be charged by the police for actual bodily harm for his part in the brawl in Bristol on September 25.
ECB sources indicated a board meeting would be convened within 48 hours of any police decision, however, with the CDC probably delivering their verdict and punishment at the same time.
With Stokes already having missed out on an estimated £50,000 in match fees as well as a lucrative £200,000-a-year sponsorship with England team sponsor New Balance as a result of his arrest and suspension, his representatives could argue he has been punished enough.
Stokes gave a final statement to Bristol and Avon Police last week and expects to hear soon whether or not he faces criminal charges. The player is able to travel freely until a decision is made and even if he is charged he does not necessarily have to appear in person until a court date is set.
Former England captain Nasser Hussain insisted that getting some cricket under his belt was a sensible option. He said: “He can get some warm sun on his back and just play some cricket. Whatever happens with the police inquiry, the ECB inquiry, if it goes his way then he’s ready.”
Australia and England yesterday travelled from Brisbane to Adelaide where the second Test starts in the early hours of Saturday morning (GMT).