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Stokes & Hales to face hearing after all-rounder’s defence highlights batsman’s role

by Wisden Staff 3 minute read

Ben Stokes and Alex Hales will face a disciplinary hearing following the conclusion of Stokes’ trial for affray.

Jurors are set to consider their verdict on Stokes and Ryan Ali following the closing statements by all sides.

But whether or not Stokes is found guilty, he and Hales will be facing a hearing by the ECB’s Cricket Disciplinary Committee (CDC).

The CDC will convene within 48 hours of the conclusion of the legal process. If Stokes is found not guilty, that will be within two days of the moment he leaves Bristol Crown Court. If he is found guilty, it will be after sentencing.

"Twenty20 is a format I have enjoyed playing in more"

Hales’ role on the night has now been brought under scrutiny

The hearing by the CDC, which is funded by the ECB but operates independently, would report within a week.

The role of Hales on the night in question was brought under scrutiny in the closing statements by Stokes’ legal team in Bristol.

Stokes’ barrister Gordon Cole QC said the injuries to co-defendant Ali could have been sustained from Hales’ kicks. No charges were brought against Hales.

“You’ve seen the kick that seems to be administered by Mr Hales that appears to have knocked the head of Mr Ali around. You’ve been shown the stills. He was clearly, you may think, kicked to the head,” said Cole.

“If that is right, is it fair to attribute any injury to Mr Stokes?”

A decision on Stokes’ availability for the third Test against India at Trent Bridge will be made once the trial concludes.

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