Ben Stokes replaces Sam Curran in England team for third test against India, captain Joe Root confirms
The all-rounder was cleared of affray on Tuesday and Root says the decision was one of the most difficult he has ever had to make
Ben Stokes has been named in the England team to play India in the third Test at Trent Bridge, captain Joe Root said.
Stokes was recalled to the squad just hours after being cleared of affray earlier this week and replaces Sam Curran in the team.
Root said it was "probably one of the most difficult decisions I've had to make as captain" after Curran's impressive performances in the victories at Edgbaston and Lord's.
Stokes was cleared of affray on Tuesday after a week-long case at Bristol Crown Court, relating to a late-night fight in the city following last September's one-day international against the West Indies.
England head coach Trevor Bayliss has called on the all-rounder to make a public apology over the events which led to his trial, having apologised to his team-mates in New Zealand last winter when he rejoined them after having to miss the Ashes while a criminal charge was being considered.
Curran would be entitled to feel hard done by after a four-wicket haul and a combative half-century in what was only the 20-year-old's second Test swung the series opener in England's favour at Edgbaston and saw him named man of the match.
