The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Wednesday made its first big call on the nightclub scandal, dropping Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson from England’s squad for the second Test against New Zealand at The Oval. With the investigation into an alleged breach of team protocols still ongoing, the board confirmed the pair would not be available for selection.
The move follows reports of a curfew breach and a Chelsea nightclub incident after England’s win in the first Test against New Zealand at Lord’s.
In the absence of Stokes, Joe Root has been entrusted with leading England ahead of vice-captain Harry Brook.
More to follow…