England all-rounder Ben Stokes has been charged with affray following a late-night incident in Bristol back in September.
Ben Stokes has been charged with one count of affray (an instance of group fighting in a public place that disturbs the peace) in relation to an incident outside a Bristol nightclub that saw him miss the Ashes series, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has confirmed.
The England all-rounder was released but subject to an investigation following the disturbance in September, with Avon and Somerset Police referring the case to the CPS for “charging advice” in November.
Stokes consequently missed the entirety of the Ashes after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed he would not be considered for selection “until further notice”.
His charge was announced on Monday and the 26-year-old is set to appear before Bristol Magistrates’ Court.
“The CPS was passed a file of evidence by Avon & Somerset Police on 29 November 2017 in relation to an incident of disorder in Bristol city centre,” read a CPS statement.
“Further material was subsequently received in late December. Following a review of all the available evidence, the CPS has today authorised the police to charge three men with affray in connection with the incident.
“Ben Stokes, 26, Ryan Ali, 28, and Ryan Hale, 26, are all due to appear before Bristol Magistrates’ Court on a date to be fixed in relation to this charge.”
Without Stokes England slumped to a 4-0 defeat against Australia, relinquishing the urn after a loss in the third Test in Perth.
Stokes was also named in England’s one-day international squad to face Steve Smith’s side, but was not involved in the opening game.
His participation in the rest of the series looks in further doubt after Monday’s development, with the ECB confirming that it would “convene within 48 hours” to make a call on his availability.
With his England career on hold, Stokes embarked on a stint with Canterbury in New Zealand to stay match-fit, playing six limited-overs games.
He scored 169 runs during that time – including a 93 – while also taking three wickets.
When contacted by Omnisport for clarification on Stokes’ international future, the ECB was not immediately available for comment. (Sportsmax)
