Cumbrian all-rounder Ben Stokes has been lauded for his “exemplary” conduct by England head coach Trevor Bayliss, who believes the all-rounder has learned a lot in a difficult year.

Stokes, from Cockermouth, played a typically whole-hearted role in the 3-0 series whitewash over Sri Lanka, bowling intimidating spells on pitches that neutered other seam bowlers, scoring a pair of half-centuries and producing moments of magic in the field.

It was all a stark reminder of the bristling, bloody-minded brilliance that England missed during last winter’s Ashes - a tour Stokes was removed from in the aftermath of a late-night incident in Bristol which has still to reach a conclusion.

In August, the 27-year-old was cleared of affray in crown court but will return home to face a Cricket Discipline Commission hearing, taking place on December 5 and 7.

The verdict of the three-man panel, chaired by former Derbyshire player Tim O’Gorman, should be the final word in the saga but as far as Bayliss is concerned, Stokes’ recent efforts have already shown he has emerged a stronger character.

“I think he’s certainly learnt a lesson since that time,” Bayliss said. “The way he’s conducted himself since he has come back into the fold has been exemplary.

"That [CDC charge] hasn’t affected him, I haven’t heard it mentioned once around the changing room.

"I hope he’s available for our next game.”