London, June 10,2026: England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson have been ruled out of selection for next week’s second Test against New Zealand as the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) continues its investigation into an alleged breach of team discipline.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the ECB confirmed that both players would not be available for selection for the second Test of the Rothesay series, scheduled to begin at the Kia Oval on June 17.
“The England & Wales Cricket Board can confirm that, given the ongoing investigation, Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have not been made available for selection for the Rothesay second Test against New Zealand,” the statement said.
Former England captain Joe Root has been appointed interim captain for the match in Stokes’ absence.
The ECB also announced the inclusion of Jofra Archer and Jordan Cox in the squad for the second Test.
The disciplinary issue stems from an incident that allegedly occurred in the early hours following England’s 115-run victory over New Zealand national cricket team in the opening Test at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Earlier this week, the ECB confirmed it was investigating Stokes’ involvement in a nightclub incident that reportedly also involved Saracens rugby player Totoa Auvaa. Reports suggest a physical altercation may have occurred, during which a member of ECB security staff was allegedly struck.
The controversy marks the latest disciplinary challenge for English cricket, which has faced scrutiny over player behaviour and team culture in recent years. Concerns regarding late-night drinking and off-field conduct were previously raised during England’s Ashes tour of Australia.
Despite being England’s vice-captain and current white-ball skipper, Harry Brook was overlooked for the interim Test captaincy. Team management instead opted for the experienced Root to lead the side at the Oval.
Brook himself was previously fined and formally reprimanded after a late-night incident involving a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand last year, an episode that contributed to the implementation of stricter team curfew rules.
The ECB has not indicated when its investigation into Stokes and Atkinson is expected to conclude.
