ECB chiefs split as Stokes’ future hangs in balance
CRUNCH LORD’S MEETING AFTER STAR CHARGED WITH AFFRAY
ENGLAND’S cricket chiefs will decide this week if Ben Stokes will be allowed to restart his international career.
But the ECB board are believed to be split over whether or not to welcome back their talisman.
Stokes was charged yesterday by the Crown Prosecution Service with one count of affray for his alleged part in a late- night incident in Bristol last September.
The 13-strong board announced that they will meet in the next 48 hours.
It will then be for them to discuss whether it is appropriate for him to play for England while he awaits his court date.
There are believed to be conflicting views among the board members that includes six current or former county chairmen as well as independent directors former cricketer Lucy Pearson, Lord Patel of Bradford and ex-police chief Jane Stichbury.
Such is the seriousness of the situation there will be some on the board questioning whether the 26-year-old all-rounder should be anywhere near the England team while his case is ongoing.
The image of the game is of huge importance and the inevitable circus that will follow Stokes ahead of any court date will have to be taken into consideration.
But having provided him with a no objection certificate to play in the Indian Premier League, where he is expected to fetch £2-3 million in the upcoming auction, there may be a desire to see him play in an England shirt beforehand if possible. And with the T20 triangular series against Australia and New Zealand set to start on February 7, there is plenty of time for Stokes to join up with the squad should he get the green light.
Stokes has already played cricket for Canterbury in New Zealand during his suspension from England duty, acknowledging the extra weight and responsibility that comes with playing for the national side.
But such is the profile of the IPL and its position within the global sporting landscape, his appearance there but not for England would pose difficult questions for the ECB.
Stokes said in a statement: “I want to thank all those who have continued to support me in relation to the Bristol incident.
“I am keen to have an opportunity to clear my name but, on advice, the appropriate time to do this is when the case comes to trial... until then, my focus is very much on cricket.”
Following the T20 triangular series, England have five ODIs and two Test matches against New Zealand in March and April which could be alternative fixtures for Stokes to appear in.