Durham issue statement on Ben Stokes nightclub arrest

Durham County Cricket Club have insisted that they do not condone “discriminatory behaviour or prejudice” following Ben Stokes’s arrest.

The all-rounder and England teammate Alex Hales have been suspended by the ECB due to their alleged involvement in a street brawl outside a nightclub last week.

Footage appeared to show Stokes and a group of other men throwing punches in a street in Bristol, and the incident eventually led to the cricketer’s arrest.

The 26-year-old was arrested on suspicion of actual bodily harm and was released without charge, but the investigation is ongoing.

Durham, who have had Stokes in their squad since 2009, have put out a statement on their official website, which reads: “Following last week’s reported incidents involving Ben Stokes, Durham County Cricket Club would like to make it clear that the club does not condone discriminatory behaviour or prejudice of any nature.

“As Ben is centrally contracted to the ECB they, as well as the police, are conducting a thorough investigation and we will allow them to continue with their process. We will be making no further comment at this time.”

Stokes suffered a minor fracture of his hand during the scuffle.