England and Durham all-rounder Ben Stokes has denied making homophobic comments prior to an alleged brawl outside a Bristol nightclub last year.

The 27-year-old was accused of mocking two "flamboyant" gay men and flicking his cigarette at them before fighting with two other men.

Stokes has denied the charge of affray at Bristol Crown Court and says that he does not recall flicking a cigarette at the couple.

Asked by barrister Gordon Cole QC if his actions could be considered homophobic, Stokes told the court: "Definitely not. The only comments between myself and this gay couple was about what we was wearing that night."

Ryan Ali, 28, has pleaded guilty to affray, while Ryan Hale, 27, has been acquitted of the same charge.

Written by
Daniel Lewis