Ben Stokes trains with England teammates for first time since his six-month lay-off

England all-rounder Ben Stokes joins his teammates for practice for the first time in six months, following his break from international cricket. Stokes pulled out of the home series against England and the ICC T20 World Cup 2021 after announcing that he would take an indefinite break from the game.

Stokes, who led a depleted England side in the ODI series against Sri Lanka, had taken time off to address his mental health issues and was also mending a finger injury. "I had a break to prioritise my mental wellbeing and I got my finger sorted. I am looking forward to seeing my mates and being on the field with them. I’m ready for Australia," Stokes said after being added to the squad for the Ashes.

However, he has made himself available for the Ashes, starting December 8 and was seen practicing at the Metricon Stadium in Gold Coast.

Stokes joined captain Joe Root and seniors like Stuart Broad in one of the first full training sessions for the players who have arrived early in Australia. Players like Jos Butler, Johnny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Chris Woakes and Mark Wood will travel from Dubai to Australia.

England's Ashes preparations will start with two friendly games against the England Lions squad, who are also in Australia.

(With inputs from PTI)