England Vs India 2018: Ben Stokes Cleared of Bristol Fracas Charge

English star all-rounder Ben Stokes found not guilty of affray following an alleged fight at a Bristol nightclub in September 2017. The 27-year-old had earlier denied the charge after a fight against a group of men on the streets of Bristol in England. As per reports, the 28-year-old Ryan Ali was left unconscious during the brawl. Stokes and Mr Ali shook hands while leaving the dock. Stokes played a crucial role against India in the ongoing Test series with teams looking at the Trent Bridge Test.

It was a six-day trial where the Bristol Crown Court heard Stokes. They described the incident as a “sustained episode of significant violence from Stokes who had lost control.

Ali was knocked unconscious by Stokes. He was charged with affray, and so was Ali.

Stokes stated that he had “stepped in” to defend a couple of gay men who were being brutally abused. However, he then had to protect himself from Mr Ali and Ryan Hale.

Both were inciting violence according to Stokes. Meanwhile, Mr Hale was acquitted of the same charge.

Mr Ali left the court and told BBC Sport he is relieved following the verdict. He also added that he doesn’t want to make any further comments.

Well, the clearance of Ben Stokes will give him a green signal to take part in the third Test against India slated to be played at Trent Bridge from 18th August.

Moreover, it will be remarkable for him to make a comeback after being the hero of the opening Test with the ball in hand.

Stokes has been a champion all-rounder for England in the last few years. His return will bolster the English side which is looking at a 5-0 thrashing after getting 2-0 up in the five-match series.

Stokes was quite brilliant with the ball in the opening Test. He was spectacular on Day four and bagged wickets in crucial junctures of the game. It eventually handed England a 31 runs victory.