Cricket: Ben Stokes recalled to England test team after not guilty verdict

  • 18/08/2018

England captain Joe Root has confirm Ben Stokes will play in the third test against India, four days after being cleared of criminal involvement in a late-night brawl.

The New Zealand born all-rounder missed the second test because of the trial.

Stokes was not initially named in the England squad for the third test, but was made available for selection after being found not guilty by a jury in Bristol.

He takes the place of Sam Curran, who was named man of the match in England's win in the first test.

Root admits it was a tough decision to drop 20-year-old Curran. 

"It was one of the most difficult decisions I've had to make as captain," said Root.

"It's about us as a squad delivering over five games and on this occasion Sam is unfortunate to miss out.

"Ben is desperate to get back playing cricket. He's desperate to get out there, put in performances and concentrate on his cricket now. He feels ready to play.

"I have known Ben from being really quite young and I feel very confident he will be able to go out and put in a performance."

Even though Stokes has been cleared of criminal charges, he is still to face the England and Wales Cricket Board's disciplinary commission over the events outside a nightclub last September.

England have a 2-0 lead and will seal the five-match series with victory in Nottingham.

Newshub.