The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is investigating Ben Stokes and all-rounder Gus Atkinson for an alleged serious breach of team protocols. Stokes and Atkinson were reportedly involved in an incident
at a London nightclub following England’s victory over New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s.
The incident is said to have occurred in the early hours of Monday at the Rex Rooms, a nightclub on London’s King’s Road. Players from Saracens Rugby Club, who were at the venue for their end-of-season celebrations, were also reportedly involved.
According to reports, a disagreement broke out between Atkinson and an unnamed Saracens player, who allegedly threw a punch at the England all-rounder.
However, the punch reportedly struck an ECB security guard instead, leaving him in need of stitches. While Stokes and Atkinson were unharmed, it remains unclear whether the altercation continued after the security guard was injured.
The development comes after Atkinson took a five-for in the second innings of the series opener as England secured a big 115-run win.
Both Stokes and Atkinson could miss the second Test against New Zealand, which begins on June 17 at The Oval.
“The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first Men’s Test against New Zealand,” the ECB said in a statement. “Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place. 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.”
Saracens also released a statement acknowledging that “an academy player connected to [the club]” was involved in an incident on “Sunday evening”.
The ECB introduced a midnight curfew for players and staff following England’s disappointing tour of Australia earlier this year. Players’ off-field conduct came under intense scrutiny during that tour, with Test vice-captain Harry Brook fined after an altercation with a bouncer, while Jacob Bethell escaped with a warning.
