Ben Stokes WILL play in the Ashes - in a huge boost to English cricket.

The Cumbrian all-rounder has today been added to the Test squad for this winter's tour of Australia.

It sees Stokes make a dramatic return to the international scene after several months away from the sport.

The Cockermouth star had stepped back from cricket in the summer to prioritise his mental well-being and to receive further treatment on a finger injury.

But having been given the all-clear by his consultant and the England & Wales Cricket Board medical team to resume training, he will join team-mates on the flight Down Under on November 4.

The 30-year-old's return is a massive boost to the Test side and restores one of the world's top players to England's ranks for the huge Ashes series.

Stokes, speaking in an ECB statement today, said: “I had a break to prioritise my mental wellbeing and I got my finger sorted.

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

Managing director of England Men's Cricket, Ashley Giles, added: "Following a very successful operation on his finger and several conversations over the last few weeks between Ben and I, our medical staff and his management team, Ben called me to say he was ready to return to cricket and was excited about the prospect of playing a significant role in the Ashes series.

"Time and time again, Ben has demonstrated how important he is to the England team and having him available for the Ashes series is excellent news for all of us and, in particular, Chris [Silverwood, head coach], Joe [Root, England captaini] and the rest of the players.

"Having not played for some time, we will move forward cautiously over the next few weeks to ensure he is fully prepared across all facets of his game.

"Ahead of a very busy period of cricket, we continue to remain mindful of the stresses on all our personnel, and our primary focus continues to be the wellbeing of all of our players and support staff."