England will welcome Ben Stokes with open arms, says Chris Woakes

A day after suspended English all-rounder Ben Stokes raised speculation of his possible participation in the ongoing Ashes by flying to New Zealand for a domestic cricket tournament, his teammate Chris Woakes said England will welcome Stokes with open arms.

On the possibility of Stokes playing in New Zealand, Woakes added: "It's great for Ben, isn't it? Having had two months away from the game, with a lot that stuff going around it'll be great for him to get outdoors. I know he's been training indoors as we've all seen, but nothing beats playing cricket outdoors."

"For him to be out there playing cricket when you've been kept in at home for a while it'll be great for him. It's great to see him back doing what he loves and what he's good at.

While the resolution to his police probe appears to be drawing closer, Woakes hinted that Stokes' stint in New Zealand's domestic cricket could well keep him in good shape if he is cleared to play the Ashes.