Hales likely to escape charges, says lawyer

England batsman Alex Hales is unlikely to face any charges for his involvement in last month's late-night fracas in Bristol, according to his lawyer.

Allrounder Ben Stokes could miss the Ashes series after being arrested in the early hours of September 25 on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm during a night out in Bristol, before being released under investigation.

Hales was with his England teammate when they were involved in an altercation with several men.

After being interviewed by police, Hales was told he is not under investigation and his lawyer Ian Kelcey is not expecting the batsman to face further action.

Kelcey told Press Association Sport: "I'd be surprised if he did. It's unlikely from what I've seen thus far. He's in a totally different position to Ben Stokes."

Hales and Stokes were both stood down from international duty after footage of the incident came to light, with the pair missing England's final two one-day internationals against the West Indies.

Hales is not part of England's Test squad but, as one of the world's premier limited-overs players, he will be in demand.

The 28-year-old is due to play in South Africa's new Twenty20 league next month as well as a tournament in Sharjah in December, while he is also sure to attract suitors for the Big Bash.

Late last week, Stokes was replaced in the England Ashes squad by paceman Steve Finn, though England director of cricket Andrew Strauss left the door open for his return. 

"With the Ashes just around the corner, it’s important to give the players, the coaching staff and supporters some clarity around a complex situation," Strauss said in a statement.

"This decision will help us in the weeks ahead and give every player and the whole England set-up the best chance to focus on the challenge ahead in Australia.

"Steven (Finn) is a high-quality cricketer, with considerable experience of both international cricket and Australian conditions.

"The Selectors believe he will add to the range of options and the squad will be further supported by the arrival of the Lions in Australia in November.

“We have spoken to Ben and assured him that our decision in no way prejudges the outcome of the ongoing Police investigation or Cricket Discipline Commission process, as can be seen by the award of Central Contracts."

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