Brendon McCullum: Stokes to return for decisive third Test against New Zealand

Brendon McCullum confirmed Ben Stokes will be back in the England squad as captain for their third and final Test of the series against New Zealand.

Stokes and Gus Atkinson were suspended for the second Test due to an incident at a nightclub, and in their absence, an inexperienced England suffered a heavy 253-run defeat.

England went into the final day needing 281 runs with five wickets to spare, but Matt Henry got figures of 6-29 in the second innings to get New Zealand level at 1-1 in the series.

Stokes represented Durham while not on international duty, making 95 in his innings, but was pulled from County Cricket, as was Atkinson, so they could return to the England fold.

The deciding Test will begin on June 25, with McCullum once again able

to call upon his captain as England look to get back on track.

"Ben will be back, and he will be captain," McCullum said.

"Everyone is excited about that, especially after seeing him hit some form with Durham.

"My view on that has not changed. I've been speaking to Ben every single day since we had the incident. My assessment was that I was worried about him.

"But to see him go out there, play some cricket and enjoy himself was really positive. It is great to see him back and playing. I look forward to seeing him in a few days. "

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been included our squad for the third Test against New Zealand.

— England Cricket (@englandcricket) June 21, 2026

On the defeat itself, stand-in captain Joe Root added: "Credit to New Zealand, a number of occasions when game was in the balance. They won those moments.

"Still 1-1 going to Trent Bridge. I enjoyed coming back into that space and working with Baz [McCullum], and a great opportunity for the young guys coming in. Need to be more switched on in the field.

"Missing eight chances is going to hurt you. Got to be smarter and better. Do that for longer, we'll be brilliant. For a number of guys to be at the front of their careers and give a good account of themselves [is great]. "

Henry had not registered a five-for in 10 previous Tests against England but ultimately finished this one with figures of 11-109.

He recorded career-best figures, and he hailed his team-mates for a strong performance to get New Zealand back on level terms.

"The way the guys applied themselves with the ball was relentless," he said. "Stuck at it and nice to get rewards.

"I'd rather be effective than look a hero. How do we get the job done and create pressure when it's not offering much? Couldn't have done it without Tom.

"Such a strong bowling group.only as good as the strength of your bowling group. First job was to get it done. "