Pommie all-rounder flies south, but not to Australia
In the fallout from the first Test loss, England all-rounder Ben Stokes has boarded a plane from the UK.
But, he’s not coming to Australia.
The England Cricket Board released a statement saying the maligned cricketer will instead travel to New Zealand where he’ll spend time with his family.
The @ECB_cricket has moved to clear up confusion regarding the viral image of @benstokes38 departing Heathrow Airport… https://t.co/669CfnEPGK #Ashes pic.twitter.com/NPaKfHeUfZ
— 7Sport (@7Sport) November 27, 2017
The all-rounder wasn’t included in England’s Ashes squad due to an ongoing police investigation.
However, the investigation seems to be drawing to a close and Stokes is reportedly a possibility for the Poms in the third test of the Ashes, on December 14 in Perth.
ECB confirm aware Ben Stokes on his way to New Zealand to see family.
Travel arrangements have not been arranged by them.
Also no updates on police investigation following Bristol incident. #bbccricket pic.twitter.com/URDGXvjKbW
— Test Match Special (@bbctms) November 27, 2017
The series continues on Saturday when Australia and England play their only day-night Test Match of the series, in Adelaide.
England is tipped to replace fast bowler Jake Ball with Craig Overton, while the Aussies are expected to continue with their winning line-up from the first Test.
