Stokes, Atkinson come clean as England announce squad for second Test against New Zealand

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been officially included in England’s squad for the decisive third Test against New Zealand, which is set to begin on June 25 at Trent Bridge. After being stood down from the second Test due to a high-profile disciplinary investigation, Stokes is also confirmed to reclaim his role as England’s Test captain. Rumors of their international reintegration had already intensified over the weekend after the ECB abruptly pulled both players from their respective County Championship fixtures.

Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson back in England's Test squad

Following the conclusion of a disciplinary hearing on Monday, the ECB issued a statement completely clearing both cricketers of violent behavior, confirming "that no blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub." The governing body clarified that Stokes was neither involved in the physical altercation nor a witness to the events. Furthermore, the investigation uncovered evidence demonstrating that Atkinson was actually the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate during the incident.

Despite being cleared of violence, both players were still sanctioned for breaking team protocols. The ECB found them in breach of specific contractual obligations that require England players to maintain the highest standards of conduct and act in the best interests of the sport at all times. As a result, the time they already spent sidelined during the second Test, paired with an official written warning, will serve as their final punishment as they rejoin the national squad.

Following their heavy defeat in the second Test at The Oval, England's selectors have opted for a notable shake-up of the squad. Uncapped debutants James Rew and Sonny Baker have both been left out of the side for the series finale. Joining them on the sidelines is Henry Crocombe, who had initially been brought into the setup as a seam-bowling cover for Ollie Robinson.

In a major boost to the batting lineup, Jamie Smith is set to make his return to the side. Smith, who was forced to miss the match at The Oval while on paternity leave, is fully expected to walk straight back into the starting eleven and reclaim the wicketkeeping gloves.

England squad for third Test vs New Zealand

Ben Stokes (C), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue