Alex Hales cleared to play, Ben Stokes remains 'unavailable'

The England and Wales Cricket Board have confirmed that explosive opener Alex Hales is available for selection but all-rounder Ben Stokes is yet to get a green signal from the police investigation. Hales was suspended by the ECB for his alleged involvement in the fight-night outside a nightclub in Bristol in September. Stokes was arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm.

It seems that the 26-year-old all-rounder will have to wait before making a comeback into the Three Lions’ squad. England are currently trailing by 1-0 in their Ashes campaign against Australia and they would have liked to have Stokes back in the side.

Hales available for selection

“Alex Hales will now be considered for England selection, following confirmation that he is no longer a suspect in relation to an incident in Bristol in September,” an ECB statement read.

“The ECB Board has convened via conference call to make the decision after being informed that Hales is deemed a witness and will face no charges.

“The independent Cricket Discipline Commission [CDC] has stayed the internal disciplinary process for both Alex Hales and Ben Stokes until the conclusion of any potential criminal proceedings relating to the incident.”

Hales can expect a call-up for England’s ODI squad for the five-match Gillette ODI Series in January, the squad is likely to be announced at the conclusion of the second day-night Test in Adelaide. The 28-year-old has also got a ‘No Objection Certificate’ from the board to participate in the inaugural edition of the T10 Cricket League in Dubai from December 21.

Stokes made an ordinary comeback into competitive cricket. He managed to score just 2 runs with the bat and bowled nine overs without any success and conceded 49 runs, playing for Canterbury v Otago. Stokes’ case has now been referred by the Avon & Somerset Police to the Crown Prosecution Service with a judgement day still not declared.