Ben Stokes may have rejoined the England set-up but Trevor Bayliss said he is unlikely to play in England’s first ODI of the New Zealand series.

The all-rounder’s last competitive match was on December 22 in New Zealand before developments in his legal case forced his return home.

Stokes will be tried for affray after indicating his not guilty plea at the Magistrates Court on Tuesday. The ECB have supported Stokes’ wish to defend himself in court and said he will not be required to return for the first hearing at Bristol Crown Court on March 12.

Stokes will join up with the T20 squad on Friday, earlier than the rest of the ODI squad who arrive on Sunday, won’t play in the final T20 of the tri-series qualifying stage and probably not in the first ODI of the New Zealand series on February 25 either.

The England head coach said returning to the field would be a relief for his star all-rounder.

“There’s been players in the past who’ve had off-field issues and are able to put that aside and concentrate on cricket. Ben is one of those types of guys but only time will tell. I’ve got a feeling he will be one of the guys who can put it aside and perform.”