England star Ben Stokes is in the Ashes squad after declaring himself ready to play competitive cricket again.

The all-rounder was initially unavailable when the team was named, having spent three months on indefinite hiatus to allow a finger injury to heal as well as prioritise his mental health.

“I had a break to prioritise my mental wellbeing and I got my finger sorted,” Stokes said.

“I am looking forward to seeing my mates and being on the field with them. I’m ready for Australia.”

Stokes will head to Australia with the rest of the team on 4 November.

The 30-year-old had a second surgery on his left index finger earlier this month and video of him back in the nets fuelled speculation of his return, which was confirmed on Monday morning.

Stokes skipped the summer Test series against India and is also not a part of the ongoing T20 World Cup.

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