Test skipper Ben Stokes and star pacer Gus Atkinson are being investigated by the England Cricket Board over a nightclub incident that occurred in the wee hours of Monday, after Stokes had led his team
to a big win over New Zealand in the first game of a two-match Test series.
The ECB announced on Monday evening that it was investigating an alleged breach of team protocols and indicated that Stokes and Atkinson, whose second-innings five-for helped England seal a win against New Zealand, could be unavailable for the second Test at The Oval beginning June 17.
Ahead of the Ashes, England’s white-ball skipper Harry Brook was punched by a nightclub bouncer in Wellington on the eve of an ODI against New Zealand, according to reports, and the incident involving Stokes and Atkinson is just another regular occurrence.
“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 said in a statement.
“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 ECB added.
England have introduced a midnight curfew for cricketers and staff after they toured Australia this winter, after their players’ off-field behaviour came under intense scrutiny.
Brook was fined and reprimanded after a late-night altercation involving a bouncer, while Jacob Bethell also received a warning over his behaviour. Meanwhile, Ben Duckett was filmed by a fan appearing intoxicated during a controversial mid-series break in Noosa.
