Stokes could still play a part in battle for Ashes

ENGLAND may fast-track Ben Stokes into the Ashes if he avoids police charges.

The all-rounder appears set to play for Canterbury Kings in New Zealand’s Ford Trophy this weekend, while his England team-mates contest the second Test with Australia in Adelaide.

There has been no police update since Stokes was arrested and released under suspicion of causing actual bodily harm in September. But it is understood the England and Wales Cricket Board has a contingency in place should Avon & Somerset Police clear the 26-year-old.

The governing body would convene a board meeting within 48 hours, after which a Cricket Discipline Commission procedure - announced under ECB auspices last month could take place.

It is a scenario which opens up the possibility, if nothing more as yet, of Stokes jetting in at some point to aid England’s battle for the Ashes.

Stokes surprised the cricketing world again when he took an unannounced flight on Monday night from Heathrow to Christchurch posting Instagram footage en route amid initial reports he was simply visiting his family.

He remains unavailable for international selection following his part in a late-night fracas in Bristol, but it has been learned he was granted a no objection certificate four days ago by the ECB to play domestic cricket anywhere.