England coach wants end to Stokes dismissal fall-out

England coach Trevor Bayliss has said his side must put the row surrounding Ben Stokes's controversial dismissal behind them as they bid to get back on terms in their one-day international series with Australia.

Durham all-rounder Stokes has insisted he did not wilfully seek to obstruct the field during England's 64-run defeat at Lord's on Saturday which put world champions Australia 2-0 up with three to play.

The all-rounder became only the second England player to be given out 'obstructing the field'.

Stokes, went down the pitch and played a Mitchell Starc delivery back to the left-arm fast bowler, who then aimed a powerful throw back in his direction as he tried for a run-out.

As Stokes leaned back and turned to make his ground, the ball hit the batsman's arm.

Australia appealed and, after lengthy deliberation involving the third umpire, Stokes was given out, much to the anger of England captain Eoin Morgan, who tried to take the matter up with opposing skipper Steven Smith.

When asked if it was time the incident was put behind them, Bayliss said Monday: "Definitely.

"I just thought it was two teams trying to win the match for their respective teams and playing with a bit of emotion. It's good to see a bit of emotion in a match," the Australian added.

"They argue one way, we argue the other, let's get on with it," he said ahead of Tuesday's third one-day international at Old Trafford.

- Natural instinct -

Australia batsman Aaron Finch, called up to the squad after David Warner suffered a broken thumb, added: "I didn't really see it until the other day but it has divided a lot of opinions.

"I mean if someone is throwing a ball at you your natural instinct would be to put your hand up and try and defend yourself, so Australia are within their rights to appeal but they don't make the decisions.

"You can't change it, it's time to move on from it I think."

England have rested wicket-keeper Jos Buttler from the remainder of the series, with Jonny Bairstow called up in his place.

"He's been in form this year and deserves his opportunity. We're looking forward to what he can do for us tomorrow," said Bayliss.

"We haven't played to our potential in the two games. Australia have played well also and that makes it difficult to play our own game.

"There are areas we need to improve in and we are looking to turn it around."

Finch, fit after several injuries problems of his own after helping Australia win the World Cup earlier this year, was looking forward to returning to international duty.
"Being out of the game for a while through injuries gives you a lot of time to sit back and reflect on how lucky we are to play international cricket.

"When you don't get that chance for a couple of games it really hits home.

"It's been quite frustrating not to be able get a run of games in a row coming back from a hamstring. I felt I was getting back into some good form, then to break my foot was another setback. It's all part of the game.

"That was the first time in 10 years that I've really missed any cricket through injury so I'm just excited to be back."
Source: AFP