London: Ben Stokes’ future as England Test captain is in doubt after he and paceman Gus Atkinson were investigated by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for alleged breach of team ethics following an incident at a nightclub early on Monday.
The incident, which took place after England’s 115-run win over New Zealand in the first Test at Lord’s, was described by the ECB as a “breach of team ethics” and has now been referred to the Cricket Control Authority.
Stokes is reportedly considering the captaincy as the investigation continues. Both players are expected to miss the second Test starting June 17 at The Oval pending investigations.
No injuries were reported, although the end-of-season celebrations are understood to have involved people associated with Saracens Rugby Club, with the initial dispute said to have stemmed from an altercation involving Atkinson and an unnamed academy player.
In an official statement, the ECB confirmed that it is seeking more information and will announce the squad for the second Test match in due course, and the Cricket Regulatory Authority has been informed.
“Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present when an incident took place at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning. We are currently seeking further information and the announcement of the squad for the second Test will be made in due course. The Cricket Regulatory Authority has been informed. We will make a further announcement if possible.”
The timing of the incident has raised further concerns in English cricket, months after stricter behavior guidelines and a midnight curfew were introduced following scrutiny of off-field behavior during England’s previous overseas tours.
England vice-captain Harry Brooke is likely to lead the side if Stokes is unavailable for the second Test as the squad awaits a trial and clarity on squad selection.
Stokes has previously said he has cut down on alcohol, although he has recently spoken about celebrating England’s Test win with teammates. His career has also featured past regulatory issues, most notably a 2017 street brawl in Bristol, for which he was later sanctioned by the ECB.
England are yet to announce their squad for the second Test as the governing body continues to investigate the incident.