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Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson are set to return to the England Test squad after being cleared of violent conduct following a nightclub brawl that marred the team’s tour earlier this month. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Saturday confirmed the outcome of its disciplinary hearing and also announced the squad for the third and final Test against New Zealand.
The development is a big boost for England, who have welcomed back a number of senior players for the Nottingham Test. While both Stokes and Atkinson were found to have breached certain contractual obligations relating to player conduct, the ECB concluded that neither player was responsible for any violent behavior during the incident.
Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson return to England Test team after nightclub controversy
England have recalled Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson for the third Test against New Zealand after both missed the second match following a nightclub controversy.
Ollie Robinson and wicketkeeper-batsman Jamie Smith are also returning to the team. Meanwhile, youngsters Reeve and Baker have been left out of the squad after featuring in England’s plans at the start of the series.
Ben Stokes will continue to lead the side as England look to finish the series against New Zealand on a strong note. The return of Atkinson has further strengthened the pace attack, while Robinson has added another experienced bowling option for the hosts.
The England selectors have largely retained the core group from the last Test, bringing back several senior names following the conclusion of the disciplinary process.
Ben Stokes escapes punishment, England announces team for third New Zealand Test
In its official statement, the ECB confirmed that both players were found guilty of breaching contractual obligations, but were cleared of engaging in violent conduct. The ECB said:
“The pair will return to the squad ahead of our final Test match of the series in Nottingham. Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been included in the England men’s squad for the third Rothesay Test against New Zealand following the conclusion of an ECB disciplinary hearing in relation to their conduct on the morning of Monday 8 June.”
The board said both players had breached the standards expected of England cricketers.
“Stokes and Atkinson were found to have breached specific contractual obligations under which England players are required to maintain the highest standards of conduct at all times and to act in the best interests of England cricket.”
As part of the disciplinary outcome, both players received written warnings.
“In addition to not being considered for selection for the second Rothesay Test, they have both been given a written warning regarding their conduct.”
However, the ECB made it clear that no player was responsible for any violent action. The statement further clarified the role of Ben Stokes in this incident.
“It also concluded that no blame should be placed on the players for the violent conduct at the nightclub.”
“Stokes was not involved in the altercation and did not witness any incidents.”
Regarding Atkinson, the ECB said:
“The evidence seen by the ECB shows that Atkinson was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate on any occasion.”
New Zealand vs England third test team
Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethel, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue.
