With Ben Stokes missing the second Test due to ongoing court hearing in Bristol for affray charges over an incident outside a pub in that city last September, former West Indian legend Clive Lloyd has said that Ben Stokes has learned it the hard way after having to go through so many trials and court sessions. 

“When you play for your country, you sign a contract. But the curfew is usually only in Tests and ODIs (limited-overs formats) when the captain and manager enforce discipline,” Lloyd said during a discussion on Wednesday to mark a book launch.

 However, he was critical of Stokes. “People only go overboard if you do not have any respect (for rules). I’m sure Stokes knows now he got to be stronger in terms of discipline. You have to have rigid discipline representing the country.”

Stokes on his part has not pleaded guilty in a jury hearing that is expected to be decided later this week. Meanwhile, the England cricket team has decided not to speak anything regarding the matter. Llyod has further said that entire incident has left him vulnerable. 

Stokes played a key role in England's victory at Edgbaston as he took six wickets in the Test match and dismissed Kohli at a crucial juncture in the second innings with India needing 84 runs on the fourth day of the first Test.