LONDON: England Test captain Ben Stokes is facing uncertainty over his future in the role after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) launched an investigation into an alleged breach of team protocols involving him and fast bowler Gus Atkinson.
The incident reportedly took place at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday, shortly after England’s 115-run victory over New Zealand national cricket team in the first Test at Lord’s.
According to the ECB, the matter has been referred to the Cricket Regulator and further information is being gathered. The board said an announcement regarding England’s squad for the second Test at The Oval, scheduled to begin on June 17, would be made in due course.
Reports suggest both Stokes and Atkinson are likely to miss the match while the investigation remains ongoing. No injuries were reported during the incident, which is understood to have involved individuals associated with a rugby club’s end-of-season celebrations.
The development comes months after English cricket authorities introduced stricter behavioural guidelines and a midnight curfew for players following concerns over off-field conduct during previous overseas tours.
Should Stokes be unavailable, England vice-captain Harry Brook is considered the leading candidate to take charge of the team.
England are yet to confirm their squad for the second Test as the ECB continues its inquiry into the incident.
