Ben Stokes faces England clearance row over possible overseas franchise deals

Ben Stokes, the former England cricket captain, is heading for a dispute with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) over his desire to play in overseas franchise competitions next summer. Stokes has held discussions with franchises in Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States and the Pakistan Super League (PSL), but the ECB is reportedly reluctant to issue the required No-Objection Certificate while he remains registered with Durham. The situation is further complicated by issues surrounding his IPL availability.