Ben Stokes has been removed from England's Test squad for the second match against New Zealand at The Oval following an incident at a London nightclub. Joe Root will take over as interim captain.
The England and Wales Cricket Board launched an investigation into a breach of team protocol after Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were present at the Rex Rooms on Kings Road in the early hours of Monday morning. The incident occurred shortly after England's convincing victory in the first Test at Lord's. Both players have been referred to the Cricket Regulator, an independent disciplinary body with authority to impose suspensions and unlimited fines.
The nightclub incident also involved players from Saracens rugby club, who were celebrating their end of season. A squad announcement for the second Test starting June 17 was expected imminently, with the possibility the announcement could come as early as Tuesday.
In a statement, the ECB said they were investigating the breach of team protocols and seeking further information. "The Cricket Regulator has been informed and we will provide a further update when possible," they added.
Stokes, who has captained England since May 2022, is understood to be considering his position. His absence removes a key player from both a leadership perspective and as a skilled all-rounder who contributes significantly with bat and ball.
Atkinson, 28, is also an important squad member. Since making his debut in July 2024, he has become England's leading wicket-taker with 76 dismissals in 17 matches.
This incident represents another disciplinary embarrassment for England's men's cricket setup. White-ball captain Harry Brook was involved in an altercation with a bouncer outside a nightclub in Wellington last November before an ODI, and subsequently lied to the media about the incident. Both Brook and Jacob Bethell were reprimanded by the Cricket Regulator. Brook, currently Test vice-captain, could be promoted temporarily if Stokes is dropped.
Earlier this year, during the Ashes in Australia, videos of inebriated England players circulated on social media while the team was in Noosa. Rob Key, England's managing director of men's cricket, criticised a perceived drinking culture within the group, saying excessive drinking was unacceptable. Those incidents led to the introduction of a midnight curfew, which Stokes and Atkinson reportedly breached.
Men's coach Brendon McCullum had previously promised to use a firm approach to address perceived discipline issues. "Playing professional sport is a great career and it's great fun, but ultimately you're representing your country and you've got some responsibilities and obligations to carry yourself in the right way," McCullum said.
Root previously captained England in 64 Test matches between 2017 and 2022 before stepping down from the role.