England Test captain Ben Stokes has found himself at the center of fresh controversy after a late-night incident at a Chelsea nightclub following England’s win over New Zealand at Lord’s.The incident happened early on Monday when several England players went out to celebrate the Test win. While a large group was reportedly present before midnight, Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson are understood to have stayed out of the team’s recently introduced midnight curfew, breaching ECB regulations.According to a report in The Telegraph, Stokes and Atkinson became involved in an altercation between a Saracens academy rugby player. While the details of the collision remain under investigation, it is understood the rugby player allegedly attempted to punch Atkinson. However, Mackay reportedly missed his intended target and instead hit an ECB security guard accompanying the England players. The security guard suffered injuries that required stitches. Neither Stokes nor Atkinson were injured during the incident.Importantly, ECB sources have maintained that the England cricketers were “not the aggressors” in the clash. It’s also unclear if more punches were thrown after the initial blow. Police were not called to the nightclub and no arrests were made.The incident has prompted an ECB investigation, the matter has also been referred to the cricket regulator. Saracens have confirmed they are considering the signing of one of their academy players.A senior rugby source reportedly defended Stokes, saying: “The Saracens player did it and has a representative. I wouldn’t want the England cricket captain to lose his job over this.Despite suggestions that Stokes and Atkinson were not responsible for starting the brawl, the ECB is said to be furious at the breach of curfew. The timing is particularly sensitive as England recently tightened rules on off-field conduct following previous disciplinary concerns.Stokes and Atkinson are expected to miss the second Test against New Zealand as the investigation continues, while vice-captain Harry Brooke The side is likely to lead. Stokes’ future as England captain could also depend on the outcome of the inquiry.
