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Ben Stokes 'delighted' to rejoin England squad after suspension ends

The ECB announced on Wednesday that Ben Stokes is due to rejoin the team in February for the T20s in New Zealand: Getty Images
The ECB announced on Wednesday that Ben Stokes is due to rejoin the team in February for the T20s in New Zealand: Getty Images

Ben Stokes says he is "extremely delighted" to be back in the frame for England selection.

The England and Wales Cricket Board announced earlier on Wednesday that the all-rounder is due to rejoin the team in February for the T20s in New Zealand.

Stokes was charged on Monday by the Crown Prosecution Service over an incident in Bristol in September last year but, having been unavailable since his initial arrest, he can now resume his international career.

The 26-year-old wrote on Twitter: "Representing my country is one of the greatest things that I've ever been lucky enough to do, walking out on to the field with the England shirt on is a privilege and a honour.

"I'm extremely delighted to be given this opportunity to do this again.

"Can't wait to get back out on a pitch with the 3 Lions on my chest and feeling that pride that we all get and giving everything for the team."

England face Australia in the second of five one-day internationals on Friday, but Stokes is not set to link back up with the side until the latter part of the subsequent Twenty20 Tri-Series involving both sides and New Zealand.

The delay in Stokes' availability for the tri-series is believed to be in case there is a court appearance he would have to attend. If all goes to plan, the 26-year-old could return to England colours against the Blacks Caps on February 13 and 18.