England’s Test captain Ben Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson were involved in an incident at a nightclub after the win at Lord's against New Zealand in first Test of the series. While the details of the incident are yet to be made public, England Cricket Board (ECB) has launched a probe as the duo allegedly violated the midnight curfew which has been put in place. After ECB’s announcement, a report claims that Stokes and Atkinson did not start the fight against English Premiership club Saracens' academy player who is part of a leading rugby union development programme.
As per the report, the rugby played allegedly wanted to punch Atkinson but ECB security guard got hit instead. The security personnel who was accompanying the English cricketers required stitches following the night club incident. While ECB is yet to name the squad for the second Test, they board is reportedly informed that none of their players initiated the spat. But, it is not clear whether they got involved in the physical altercation after the ECB security personnel got injured.
“The Saracens player caused this and has a rep. I would not want the England cricket captain to lose his job over this,” a source told the English daily.
What did ECB say?
The ECB statement on June 8 indicated that Stokes and Atkinson may face serious repercussions. Stokes may end up losing the Test captaincy. He has already been involved in a nightclub brawl early in his career. On the recent Australia tour, the English team was criticised for excessive drinking during the Ashes, especially the infamous Noosa trip.
“The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first Men’s Test against New Zealand,” the ECB said in a statement.
“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.”
Who will lead England if Stokes is sacked?
If Stokes faces a few matches’ ban or loses his captaincy, Harry Brook is likely to take over the mantle for the Oval Test which is scheduled to begin on June 17. Brook had a nightclub incident of his own during his debut series as ODI captain in New Zealand. Also, Jacob Bethell was warned for his conduct whereas Bethell was filmed drunk in Australia.
However, if Stokes and Atkinson don't play the second Test, it will be a headache for the selectors. In the current squad, England don't have a genuine pace-bowling all-rounder. While an in-form Matthew Fisher can come in for Atkinson, replacing Stokes will be a task for them.