Clare Stokes has spoken out about allegations that her husband, England cricketer Ben Stokes, choked her during an award ceremony at the Roundhouse in Camden last week. The story emerged after paparazzi pictures were published by Media Guido that appeared to show the couple arguing, and then Ben reached for her neck as she pushes him away.
‘Unbelievable what nonsense these people will make up,’ Clare tweeted in response alongside a picture of her squeezing Ben’s face. ‘Me and Ben messing about squishing up each other’s faces cos that’s how we show affection and some pap tries to twist it in to a crazy story! And all before we then have a romantic McDonalds 20 mins later!’
Originally, Media Guido published the pictures alongside the following commentary from a supposed witness:
‘The evening began happily enough for the couple, enjoying a drink at the bar, chatting with a mate, everything was fine. Then something happens and Clare tells Ben she doesn’t want to hear it, speak to the hand. They go off to a side room and a row starts, anyone at the event couldn’t be unaware of something going on. All of sudden Stokes grabs his wife Clare in a chokehold and then she either falls back, pulls away or is pushed back by him. The couple left the event minutes later.’
Despite her denial, many have responded to the tweet offering her support given how common it is for women who experience domestic violence to cover up abuse. According to Refuge, 65% of women in abusive relationships keep it hidden.
‘Hope this is true. I spent a long time saying everything was fine when it wasn't. Either way, I wish you well & safe,’ one commentator replied to her tweet.
‘Won't be the first victim to defend their assailant,’ another added. ‘That's what control does. That's what fear does. Sinister is how I would describe this scenario.’
England and Wales Cricket Board chief executive Tom Harrison has defended the Ben Stokes, saying: ‘We have spoken with both Clare and Ben – as well as others in attendance – who have all clarified the innocent context behind the still photographs taken at last week’s PCA Awards,’ he said.
If you are suffering from domestic abuse and need help, please call Refuge on 0808 2000 247