Sportswear brand New Balance has decided to sever all their ties with England all-rounder Ben Stokes following his arrest after an ugly brawl in Bristol after 3rd ODI against the Windies. New Balance is currently having a deal with prominent cricketers like Steve Smith, Joe Root, Aaron Finch etc.
A statement from New Balance quoted, “New Balance does not condone behavior by our global athletes that do not match our brand culture and values, and therefore we have ended our relationship with Ben Stokes, effective October 11, 2017. We will not provide further comment.”
Last week it was confirmed that Ben Stokes will not travel with the England team for Ashes 2017-18. The first Ashes test starts at Gabba, Brisbane on November 23. Stokes was originally named in the squad but later removed as England included fast bowler Steve Finn in touring party.
While many including Steve Waugh believe this was a big blow for England and severely dents their Ashes chances, Moeen Ali made a statement England can win Ashes without Stokes. He was supposed to be England”s vice-captain.
Stokes along with his teammate Alex Hales who was also present when the incident happened was suspended from the remainder of ODI series against West Indies. England Cricket Board got it straight that the duo will remain ineligible for selection until further notice from police.
All-rounder from Durham was snapped up by Rising Pune Supergiants for a whopping 14.5 crores earlier this year. He had a fruitful IPL season. He is regarded as the most valuable all-rounder in contemporary times.
Stokes is often compared with former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff. He is now showing he is no different from Freddie by getting involved in controversies. Throughout the course of his career, Freddie Flintoff also had his share of controversies.
The 26-year-old has played 39 tests, 62 ODIS and 21 T20Is for England. If he misses the Ashes then it is difficult for England to replace a player like him.
– by Atharva Apte
