Ben Stokes’ captaincy comes under scrutiny as ECB investigates alleged nightclub incident

England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson are under investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for allegedly breaching team protocols after attending a nightclub in the early hours of Monday following England’s first Test victory over New Zealand at Lord’s.

The ECB confirmed that an incident took place while the duo were present at the venue and said it is gathering further information before deciding on any action.

Advertisement

In a statement, the ECB said:

“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 board added that the squad for the second Test against New Zealand, scheduled to begin at The Oval on June 17, will be announced after the investigation progresses.

“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 added.

Latest off-field issue for England

The development marks another off-field controversy involving England’s men’s team in recent months.

Last year, Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell came under scrutiny after reports of partying and alleged drunken behaviour during England’s trip to Noosa following heavy Ashes defeats in Australia.

Limited-overs captain Harry Brook was also reportedly involved in an altercation during England’s tour of New Zealand before the Ashes, prompting the team management to impose a midnight curfew on all players and support staff, a rule understood to still be in effect.

England had just secured dominant Lord’s victory

The investigation comes just hours after England registered a comprehensive 115-run victory over New Zealand in the opening Test at Lord’s, wrapping up the match in less than four days.

Ollie Robinson was named Player of the Match after claiming seven wickets, including a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Debutant opener Emilio Gay contributed a valuable half-century, helping England set New Zealand a target of 254.

The visitors were then bowled out for 138, with Gus Atkinson starring with figures of 5/30 in the second innings to seal the win.

Saracens’ academy player also linked to incident

According to Britain’s Daily Telegraph, players from Premiership Rugby club Saracens were also in attendance for the club’s end-of-season celebration.

Saracens later confirmed that one of its academy players was involved in an incident.

“We are aware of an incident involving an academy player connected to Saracens,” the club said in a statement.

“The club is currently establishing the full facts and is in contact with the relevant authorities and individuals involved. Once this process is complete, the matter will be reviewed and addressed appropriately. We will make no further comment at this time.”