England’s emphatic 115-run victory over New Zealand at Lord’s has quickly been overshadowed by an off-field controversy, with captain Ben Stokes and pace bowler Gus Atkinson coming under investigation by the ECB over an undisclosed incident at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday.
The ECB, on Monday evening, revealed that it was probing an alleged breach of team protocols and indicated that both the players could miss the second Test at The Oval, thus casting a shadow over England’s strong start to the series.
“The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first Men’s Test against New Zealand,” the ECB’s statement said.
“Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place.
“We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test will be made in due course.
“The Cricket Regulator has been informed and we will provide a further update when possible.”
More to follow…