Stokes included in Ashes squad

AFP, LONDON: Ben Stokes was included in England's 16-man squad for the Ashes tour of Australia announced Wednesday despite his recent arrest on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm.

Durham all-rounder Stokes was dropped for Wednesday's fourth one-day international against West Indies at The Oval -- the venue for the Ashes squad announcement after being arrested early on Monday in Bristol. That followed England's win in the third ODI in the southwest city on Sunday. Stokes, 26, remains under investigation after being released without charge.

England national selector James Whitaker later told the BBC that Stokes would remain in his position of vice-captain to Test skipper Joe Root.

The squad contained three uncapped players in 23-year-old Somerset fast bowler Craig Overton, 20-year-old Hampshire leg-spinner Mason Crane, who will provide spin support to Moeen Ali, and Surrey wicket-keeper Ben Foakes, 24, included as cover for first-choice gloveman Jonny Bairstow.

Meanwhile there were recalls for middle-order batsmen James Vince and Gary Ballance despite the pair's struggles during their previous Test stints.

Stokes included in Ashes squad

AFP, LONDON: Ben Stokes was included in Englands 16-man squad for the Ashes tour of Australia announced Wednesday despite his recent arrest on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm. Durham all-rounder Stokes was dropped for Wednesdays fourth one-day international against West Indies at The Oval -- the venue for the Ashes squad announcement after being arrested early on Monday in Bristol. That followed Englands win in the third ODI in the southwest city on Sunday. Stokes, 26, remains under investigation after being released without charge. England national selector James Whitaker later told the BBC that Stokes would remain in his position of vice-captain to Test skipper Joe Root. The squad contained three uncapped players in 23-year-old Somerset fast bowler Craig Overton, 20-year-old Hampshire leg-spinner Mason Crane, who will provide spin support to Moeen Ali, and Surrey wicket-keeper Ben Foakes, 24, included as cover for first-choice gloveman Jonny Bairstow. Meanwhile there were recalls for middle-order batsmen James Vince and Gary Ballance despite the pairs struggles during their previous Test stints.