Ben Stokes withdrawn from England squad for the Ashes

England all-rounder Ben Stokes’ has been withdrawn from the team that will travel to Australia for the Ashes this November. England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) made the decision in its response to the ongoing investigation against Stokes for his involvement in a street brawl. The board is yet to make the final call and this is a temporary move.

He had successfully retained his central contract but failed to maintain his place in the team. Stokes’ current status as per the ECB is on an indefinite paid suspension. They will not take any decision till the police investigation is completed. To announce their decision the board released a statement with Andrew Strauss the Director of England Cricket terming it a move to give the players as well as the coaches clarity of the situation.

“With the Ashes just around the corner, it’s important to give the players, the coaching staff and supporters some clarity around a complex situation,” said Strauss. “This decision will help us in the weeks ahead and give every player and the whole England set-up the best chance to focus on the challenge ahead in Australia,” he added.

The selectors have thus named fast bowler Steve Finn as Stokes’ replacement in the squad for the series down under. Finn’s last Test appearance for the three lions was against Bangladesh in October 2016 and will travel with the team to strengthen the bowling department.

“Steven is a high-quality cricketer, with considerable experience of both international cricket and Australian conditions. The Selectors believe he will add to the range of options and the squad will be further supported by the arrival of the Lions in Australia in November,” Strauss stated.

He also assured that the management has conveyed it to Stokes and also assured that they’re not looking to jump the gun. “We have spoken to Ben and assured him that our decision in no way prejudges the outcome of the ongoing Police investigation or Cricket Discipline Commission process, as can be seen by the award of Central Contracts,” he concluded.