England cricketers Ben Stokes and Alex Hales are to get new central contracts from England and Wales Cricket Board on this Friday, announced by ECB itself.

Flamboyant all-rounder Stokes and star opener Hales found fighting outside a club in Bristol on September 25, after their side won third One-Day International against visiting West Indies. Stokes had to spend that night in the prison as he beat a man, while Hales was with police as well. Afterward, both players were axed from the team and they are not allowed to play until further notice.

While Stokes is expected to receive a new contract, Hales will retain his incremental contract. ECB was to announce the contract list on Wednesday but they delayed it. Also, the board delayed the team selection for ODI series in Australia, which was expected to take place this week.

Last night, Professional Cricketer Association (PCA) hosted an award and dinner night for the cricketers. But both of them were missing from there as well.

Meanwhile, ECB named Ben Stokes in the Ashes squad without knowing whether he will be allowed to take the field or not. First Ashes Test will be played from November 23 in Brisbane.