Ben Stokes flies to New Zealand, speculations ripe on Ashes participation

There finally looks to be some silver lining for England all-rounder Ben Stokes, after New Zealand’s domestic side Canterbury confirmed his availability. His trip to the Oceania neighbours has now given rise to speculations, that he is a step closer to playing in the Ashes against Australia after boarding a flight to New Zealand. However, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed Stokes was making “a private trip to New Zealand to spend time with his family.”

Stokes, who was under police investigation for a bar brawl, didn’t travel with the team for Ashes. The Christchurch-born cricketer was detained from travelling to Australia for the ongoing Ashes while police investigated the circumstances surrounding his arrest in the early hours of September 25 in Bristol. Amidst speculation the 26-year-old was set to play for Canterbury in a one-day game on Sunday, the team confirmed it had spoken to Stokes’ representatives.

The state association released a statement which read, “Canterbury Cricket can now confirm that they have been in initial informal discussions with Ben Stokes’ representatives regarding his potential availability for Ford Trophy and Burger King Super Smash competitions.”

Canterbury Cricket chief executive Jeremy Curwin added: “The CCA board and New Zealand Cricket will independently be considering this issue in the near future but, until then, we are unable to provide any more detail on the status of the deliberations.

“As and when there are any further developments we will of course release further statements.”

Stokes released without any charges

Stokes was eventually released without any charges imposed on him after he got into an alleged fight with two men outside a bar.

Avon and Somerset Police have not issued an update on its investigation into the mishap that occurred in Bristol. England director of cricket Andrew Strauss has also previously suggested that Stokes’ involvement in the Ashes will hinge on inquiries being concluded.