Stokes & Atkinson investigated over nightclub incident

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is investigating an incident involving captain Ben Stokes and pace bowler Gus Atkinson. The pair reportedly breached team protocols at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning, following England's victory in the first Test against New Zealand.

This investigation adds to a string of recent controversies that have plagued the England team. Allegations of a drinking culture have surfaced, particularly following their Ashes tour. Previously, white-ball captain Harry Brook was involved in an altercation with a nightclub bouncer in Wellington, which led to the imposition of a midnight curfew on all players and staff.

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The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first men's Test against New Zealand.

The ECB statement confirmed the investigation, noting that "Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place." The Cricket Regulator has been notified, and the board stated that further information would be provided in due course regarding the squad for the upcoming second Test.

England faced criticism for their off-field behavior during the Ashes series defeat in Australia, including a mid-series holiday that was marred by reports of excessive drinking. A video of opener Ben Duckett appearing intoxicated circulated on social media after that trip. Despite these incidents, director of cricket Rob Key had previously denied the existence of a team drinking culture.

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Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place.