London: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday announced the 15-man squad for the second Test of the three-match domestic series against New Zealand at The Oval from June 17 to 21.
The announcement comes as England’s regular Test captain Ben Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson are currently under investigation for allegedly breaching the team’s curfew and arguing with Saracens rugby player Todoa Awuah following the 115-run series opener against New Zealand.
As a result, both were not selected in the recently announced squad led by experienced batsman Joe Root, while Sussex pacer Jofra Archer and Essex batsman Jordan Cox were included as their replacements.
International media have reported that Stokes is set to meet his advisors today to decide his future amid growing speculation that he may retire from international cricket.
Stokes has been given time by the ECB to consider his options following the nightclub incident after the first Test against New Zealand, which has prompted investigations by both the board and the regulator.
The ECB is expected to take disciplinary action against both players for breaching the team code of conduct, with officials keen to allow Stokes to make his own decision about his future.
Concerns over the England captain’s possible retirement prompted an emergency ECB executive committee meeting on Tuesday morning.
At the time, there were strong signs that Ben Stokes was getting frustrated and was considering ending his illustrious 15-year international career.
Reports suggest that communication between Stokes and the ECB has soured, with some fearing his decision could be learned through a post on social media.
While retirement is a possibility, there is a growing belief that Stokes has backed away from taking such a drastic decision.
England squad for second Test against New Zealand:
Joe Root (catch), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethel, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Kay, James Reeve, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith and Josh Dungu.
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