ECB Inquiry Leaves Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson Out of England’s Second Test Squad

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been left out of England’s 15-player squad for the second Test against New Zealand as the England and Wales Cricket Board continues an investigation into an alleged breach of team protocols.

Joe Root will captain the side in Stokes’ absence for the match at the Kia Oval, scheduled from 17 to 21 June. Sussex fast bowler Jofra Archer and Essex batter Jordan Cox have been added to the squad as England prepare to build on their 115-run victory in the first Test at Lord’s.

England squad reshaped as ECB inquiry continues

Reports said Stokes and Atkinson were at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday following England’s win over New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s, where an alleged incident involving a rugby player took place.

The ECB confirmed it is examining a possible breach of team protocols after the opening Test and later stated that Stokes and Atkinson would not be considered for selection while inquiries continue.

“The England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) can confirm that, given the ongoing investigation, Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have not been made available for selection for the Rothesay second Test against New Zealand, which starts at the Kia Oval on Wednesday 17 June. Yorkshire batter Joe Root will lead the team as Interim Captain,” the ECB said in an official statement.

Leadership uncertainty adds to England’s second Test buildup

TalkSport reported on Tuesday that Stokes is likely to step down as captain and may also announce his retirement, developments that could further reshape England’s leadership structure as the investigation into the reported nightclub incident continues.

With Stokes and Atkinson unavailable, Root will lead England in the second Test at the Oval, while Archer and Cox await selection. The ECB’s investigation remains open, with no timeframe announced for its conclusion.

Source link