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England’s preparations for the second Test against New Zealand have suffered another setback, with fast bowler Ollie Robinson’s injury becoming a major concern ahead of the match at The Oval. Robinson is expected to undergo a knee scan after experiencing pain following a training session, forcing England to call upon uncapped Sussex fast bowler Henry Crocombe as cover.
The development comes at a difficult time for the hosts, who are already without captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson. Both players have been dropped from the squad while the ECB and cricket regulator continue to investigate the nightclub controversy that erupted after England’s victory in the first Test at Lord’s.
With England already dealing with significant disruption off the field, Robinson’s fitness concerns just days before the start of the second Test on June 17 have added another headache to the team management.
Ollie Robinson doubtful to play in the second test against New Zealand
England confirmed on Saturday that Henry Crocombe has been included in the Test squad as cover for Robinson, who complained of knee pain after training on Friday.
The Sussex fast bowler is set to undergo a precautionary scan, with England awaiting the results before making a final decision on his availability for the second Test.
Crocombe’s call-up marks a significant moment in the young seamer’s career. The uncapped pacer has joined the England squad which has undergone several changes ahead of the match against New Zealand.
The England team for the second Test includes Joe Root as captain along with Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Sony Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethel, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Henry Crocombe, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Reeve, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith and Josh Tong.
Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson out of second test against New Zealand
The latest injury concern follows the absence of Stokes and Atkinson, who were left out of the squad following a nightclub incident following England’s win at Lord’s.
The controversy began when several England players celebrated victory at the White Horse pub on Parsons Green on Sunday evening. While many players returned to the team hotel before England’s midnight curfew, Stokes and Atkinson continued their evening at Chelsea’s Rex Rooms nightclub.
According to reports, the incident involved Saracens academy player Totoa Auwa and stemmed from confusion over a reserved VIP seating area. The disagreement later escalated into a confrontation outside the venue.
Reports said Auwa allegedly attempted to punch Atkinson, but instead hit England’s security contact James Shaw, who required stitches. Neither Stokes nor Atkinson were injured, although police were not involved.
Although Stokes’ role in the controversy has been described as peripheral, both he and Atkinson admitted breaching England’s curfew rules.
Ben Stokes returns to training with Durham
Despite being unavailable for England selection, Stokes returned to training with Durham on Saturday, giving the first public indication that he is focused on continuing his playing career.
The England captain was in attendance at Chester-le-Street on the second day of Durham’s County Championship match against Derbyshire. Stokes bowled in the middle before the game and afterwards spent time batting in the nets with Durham batting coach Dale Benkenstein.
His return to cricket activities comes amid ongoing speculation about his future after the nightclub controversy. Earlier reports had suggested that Stokes was considering a move away from international cricket, although these claims have cooled considerably in recent days.
Importantly, neither Stokes nor Atkinson have been suspended from playing domestic cricket. As a result, both counties remain eligible to participate in the upcoming round of Championship fixtures if they choose to do so.
