Stokes, Atkinson under investigation over nightclub incident, ECB says

England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson are under investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) following a nightclub incident. The ECB confirmed on Monday that it is investigating a breach of team protocols after the first men's test against New Zealand concluded.

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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 incident took place in the early hours of Monday morning after England's win. While the ECB has not disclosed the specific details, it stated that both Stokes and Atkinson were present at a nightclub when the event occurred. The board indicated that further information is being sought and an announcement regarding the squad for the second test will follow.

This situation represents another challenge for the England team, which faced criticism earlier this year during its Ashes series defeat amid reports of heavy drinking. Following that series, batsman Harry Brook also drew attention for a previous altercation with a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand, for which he later apologized.

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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.

ECB chief executive Richard Gould had previously announced stricter measures for players, including a midnight curfew. The latest breach intensifies pressure on head coach Brendon McCullum, whose role across all formats was retained in March despite ongoing concerns about team culture. Stokes has a history of off-field incidents, including a 2017 affray charge outside a Bristol nightclub that led to him missing the 2017-18 Ashes tour.

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We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second test will be made in due course.