Ben Stokes punishment decided as England captain axed and replaced | Cricket | Sport

June 10, 2026 3,848

Ben Stokes has been dropped from the England squad for the second Test against New Zealand amid an ongoing investigation into a nightclub altercation. Reports emerged that the England captain was embroiled in a confrontation alongside Gus Atkinson, a security member and a Saracens rugby player.

An inquiry has been launched and, while that continues, the ECB have confirmed that Stokes has been relieved of the captaincy and removed from the squad. A statement on Wednesday read: “The England and Wales Cricket Board can confirm that, given the ongoing investigation, Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have not been made available for selection for the Rothesay 2nd Test against New Zealand, which starts at the Kia Oval on Wednesday 17 June.

“Yorkshire batter Joe Root will lead the team as Interim Captain. Sussex fast bowler Jofra Archer and Essex batter Jordan Cox have been added to the squad.”