PCA PRESS RELEASE
Please find below the statements from the Professional Cricketers' Association Chief Executive David Leatherdale, Alex Hales and Ben Stokes in regards to the outcome of the Cricket Discipline Commission hearing.
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DAVID LEATHERDALE STATEMENT
“The PCA and both players fully accept the sanctions against them and it has been a fair hearing through the Cricket Discipline Commission. Both players are now keen to move on and continue their England careers.
“The PCA has remained in full support of Alex and Ben throughout this entire process and we have offered necessary advice to both players.”
ALEX HALES STATEMENT
“I am relieved today’s decision by the CDC means this chapter is now closed and I can move on with my career.
“There is no doubt I fell below the high standards expected of an international sportsman and that was the reason for my decision to admit the charges and accept the punishment handed down.
“More than anything, I sincerely apologise for putting myself in a position which allowed these very regrettable incidents to happen.
“Now all I want to do is concentrate on cricket. I’d like to thank everybody at Nottinghamshire for their support and I am delighted to have committed to helping out in several of the club’s community schemes.
“I would also like to thank the Professional Cricketers’ Association and the Team England Player Partnership who have offered a huge amount of support over the last 15 months.
“The next year is obviously an important one for England. I would love to be part of a squad that wins the World Cup in front of our own fans and I will be doing everything in my power to make that dream come true.”
BEN STOKES STATEMENT
“Everyone will now be aware that the CDC disciplinary proceedings have now concluded and I accept the decision of the Panel. I had entered guilty pleas to bringing the game in to disrepute much earlier in the process and I want to thank the panel for their time and consideration now that the hearing has ended.
“The criminal charges and, subsequently, the disciplinary charges have made it difficult to make public comment about the issues. I have already apologised to my team mates, coaches and support staff for the consequences of my actions in Bristol. I regret the incident ever happened and I apologise to England supporters and to the public for bringing the game in to disrepute. I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout this process.
“Cricket and family are my life. This incident has been a huge burden for the last 15 months. I am relieved to get back to playing the game that I love without this hanging over me. Although the disciplinary process is now over, I have learned lessons that will stay with me for much longer.”
The PCA and both players will be making no further comment at this stage.
