New Delhi: England’s preparations for the second Test against New Zealand have been mired in controversy, the captain said Ben Stokes And all-rounder Gus Atkinson is under investigation for alleged breach of team protocol.The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed on Tuesday that it was investigating the incident between the two players after the end of the first Test against New Zealand. England won the first match of the three-Test series at Lord’s by 115 runs.According to an official ECB statement, Stokes and Atkinson were at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when the incident took place.“The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocol following the conclusion of the men’s first Test against New Zealand,” the board said in a statement.“Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident occurred.”The ECB said it was gathering additional information before deciding on any further action.“We are currently getting more information, and the squad for the second Test will be announced in due course.”The development has raised questions over the availability of both players for the second Test, with England yet to announce their squad for the match.
The ECB has also confirmed that the matter has been reported to the cricket regulator.“The cricket regulator has been informed and we will provide further updates when possible.”The incident came as an unwelcome distraction for England, especially as Stokes captained the team and Atkinson emerged as one of the key performers in the opening Test. The fast bowler finished the match with seven wickets and was instrumental in England’s win.Currently, the ECB has not disclosed the nature of the incident, and further details are expected once the investigation is complete.The second Test between England and New Zealand will be played from June 17 at the London Oval.
