England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson are under investigation for breaching team protocols after being found at a nightclub following England’s victory in the first Test against New Zealand at Lord’s.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued a statement confirming the inquiry: “The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first Men’s Test against New Zealand. Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place.”
The ECB added that the team selection for the second Test, scheduled at The Oval on June 17, will be announced in due course. “We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test will be made in due course. The Cricket Regulator has been informed, and we will provide a further update when possible,” the statement said.
This is the second recent instance of England facing scrutiny over players’ off-field conduct. Earlier, Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell were investigated for partying and alleged intoxication during their team’s trip to Noosa following two heavy Ashes defeats in Australia last year. Additionally, Harry Brook, England’s limited-overs captain, was reportedly involved in an altercation during a tour of New Zealand prior to the Ashes series.
Regarding the first Test at Lord’s, England secured a 115-run win in a low-scoring match lasting less than four days. Ollie Robinson was named Player of the Match after taking seven wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Debutant opener Emilio Gay scored a fluent half-century in New Zealand’s second innings, setting a target of 254 runs for England. England then bowled out New Zealand for 138 runs, with Gus Atkinson claiming a five-wicket haul in the second innings.
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