New Zealand media label Ben Stokes' Canterbury stint as “a shameless publicity stunt”

England all-rounder Ben Stokes recently inked a deal with New Zealand domestic side Canterbury for a one-day match. Stokes, who has been suspended from England’s squad for the ongoing Ashes was traveling to New Zealand for an intended family trip. The versatile all-rounder was born in New Zealand but moved to England as a child when his father Gerard, a former rugby league international, took a coaching role. Both parents have since moved back to Christchurch.

However, the deal coupled with the proximity of New Zealand to Australia could imply that ECB will attempt to parachute Stokes into their squad immediately after the police investigation into his late-night altercation in Bristol gets resolved. And his arrival in New Zealand has not been met with universal acclaim, with the Kiwi media marking it as “a shameless publicity stunt”.

Sharing his views on the matter, New Zealand Herald cricket writer David Leggat opined, “It’s a choice between morality and opportunity and Canterbury Cricket today opted for the latter.”

He added, “We believe Ben has the right to be treated the same way as other players,” he said. “It is also our understanding that Ben would be free to play county cricket in the English domestic competition were they in season. Of course, as with all players, we can reassess the situation should it change.”

Canterbury chief plays down any link to Stokes’ Ashes ambitions

Earlier, Canterbury said in a statement that the England all-rounder had signed as the team’s overseas player and would be eligible for a one-day match against Otago on Sunday. However, Canterbury chief executive Jez Curwin played down any link to Stokes’ Ashes ambitions.

The Christchurch-born Stokes has been suspended from the England squad pending the outcome of his street-brawl case leading to his arrest in the early hours of September 25 in Bristol.

The Lions will be next facing Australia in the historic day-night second Test at the Adelaide Oval from December 2-6 and try to curb hosts from cushioning their 1-0 lead.