Stokes and Atkinson found to be blameless for 'violent conduct' as pair return to squad

England cricketers Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been cleared of "violent conduct" following an investigation into an incident at a London nightclub. However, both players were found to have breached "contractual obligations" by violating the team's midnight curfew and being present during an altercation where a security staff member was struck by a Saracens rugby player.

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No blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued written warnings to Stokes and Atkinson, stating they "breached specific contractual obligations that require England players to at all times maintain the highest standards of conduct and act in the best interests of England cricket." No further disciplinary action will be taken beyond their temporary removal from the squad for the second Test.

A separate inquiry by the Cricket Regulator concluded that Stokes and Atkinson have no further case to answer. "No blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub," the ECB confirmed. The investigation found that Stokes was not involved in the altercation and did not witness it, while Atkinson was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate.

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Stokes was not involved in the altercation and did not witness either incident.

Both players have been named in the squad for the decisive third Test at Trent Bridge, with Stokes reinstated as captain. Their return is a significant boost for England, who suffered a heavy defeat in the second Test with an inexperienced team. The inclusion of Stokes, a key all-rounder and leader, is vital as England aims to win the series and alleviate pressure following a difficult Ashes series and recent off-field controversies.

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The evidence the ECB has seen demonstrates that Atkinson was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate on either occasion.