England all-rounder Ben Stokes, who was involved in a street brawl in Bristol on Sunday, and batsman Alex Hales will “not be considered for selection for international matches until further notice”, the country’s board announced on Thursday.
Both players will “remain on full pay” pending further investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board and the police. Hales was with Stokes when the incident took place late on Sunday night.
Stokes was arrested by the police on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm following the street brawl. He was released on Monday without charge but remained under investigation.
The police are currently investigating video footage published on Wednesday by The Sun that appears to show Stokes engaged in the brawl. The 26-year-old appears to be fighting with two men, one of whom is holding a bottle.
Stokes was included in England’s 16-man Ashes squad led by skipper Joe Root announced on Wednesday, despite injuring his hand in the incident. However, as things stand, he will not make the trip to Austalia.
Stokes and Hales were also omitted from England’s series-clinching ODI win against West Indies at The Oval on Wednesday.
With inputs from AFP
Limited-time offer: Big stories, small price. Keep independent media alive. Become a Scroll member today!
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!