Steven Finn has been added to England’s squad for the Ashes in light of the ongoing police investigation into Ben Stokes.

The Watford-born Middlesex bowler will travel to Australia for the five-match series on Saturday, October 28, but the ECB have confirmed Stokes will not travel with the rest of the squad on that day, although no final decision has been taken about his involvement in the series.

The 26-year-old all-rounder is currently under investigation by police having been arrested on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm last month.

Neither Stokes nor Alex Hales, who has also spoken to police in connection with an alleged incident outside a Bristol nightclub, are being considered for selection until further notice.

Director of England cricket Andrew Strauss said: “With the Ashes just around the corner, it’s important to give the players, the coaching staff and supporters some clarity around a complex situation.

“This decision will help us in the weeks ahead and give every player and the whole England set-up the best chance to focus on the challenge ahead in Australia.

“Steven is a high-quality cricketer, with considerable experience of both international cricket and Australian conditions. The selectors believe he will add to the range of options and the squad will be further supported by the arrival of the Lions in Australia in November.”

Finn, who has not had his central contract renewed, was sent home early from the last Ashes tour after losing confidence and control with his bowling action. But a year-and-a-half later in the summer of 2015 he was making a triumphant return against Australia, named man-of-the-match after taking 6-79 in the second innings as England triumphed by eight wickets in the third Test at Edgbaston.

Given the hard, flat pitches down under, the 28-year-old had been at the top of many pundits’ lists to be added to the squad if England decided on another bowling option to replace Stokes if necessary.

The former Parmiter’s School student, who signed a new contract with Middlesex last month, played three Tests in the 2010 Ashes and took a total of 14 wickets in the matches at Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth.