Legal issues loom over Ben Stokes: Court hearing begins
England all-rounder Ben Stokes will miss the second Test against India at Lord's owing to legal troubles. Stokes has been accused of 'affray', public display of force when he got involved in a scuffle outside a nightclub last September. The trial will go on at the Bristol Crown Court, where Stokes appeared along with two other accused individuals, Ryan Hale and Ryan Ali.
The entire incident: How did it happen?
After a match against the West Indies, Stokes had headed out to the Mbargo nightclub. He tried to re-enter again after 2 AM. When denied, the sportsman lost his cool with the gatekeeper and hurled abuses at him, even offered him £300. Post that, he got involved in a fracas with Ali and Hale, causing significant injuries to both.
What is 'affray' exactly?
Affray, in legal terms, is a public order offense, and a type of disorderly conduct which is considered a breach of peace. Affray is taken seriously in the British courts, with maximum punishment leading up to 3 years of imprisonment and the defendant can also be fined an unlimited amount. Notably, Stokes, Ali, and Hale have all denied the charges levied against them.
Scene of the crime: When and how did it happen?
The three accused individuals were arrested and detained on September 25. The arrest took place at the Clifton Triangle, after an ODI match against the West Indies. Kai Barry and William O'Connor were two other men present at the scene of the crime. Ryan Ali is said to use a bottle as a weapon during the fight.
The cricketer's performances and matches he will miss
Ben Stokes was the most valued player in IPL 2018, having been bought by the Rajasthan Royal Rs. 12.5 cr. Stokes has already missed the Ashes series owing to the charges, which Australia won 4-0. He was allowed to play domestic cricket in New Zealand but will miss the Test against India at Lord's.
The ECB's reactions to the entire issue
The England and Wales Cricket Board had earlier suspended Stokes on account of his arrest and the charges levied against him. However, the all-rounder was reinstated once he denied the charges, pleading 'not guilty'. The board had stated that we fully respect the legal process and the player's right to defend himself against the charge.
