ECB to investigate Stokes, Atkinson over nightclub incident

England Test captain Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson are under investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) over an “undisclosed” incident at a night club in the early hours after its first Test win over New Zealand.

“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.

“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.”

Atkinson starred on the fourth day on Sunday, claiming a fifer to lead England to a 115-run at Lord’s as Stokes’ men bounced back after the Ashes debacle at the start of the year.

England cricketers came under intense scrutiny over their drinking culture during the New Zealand and Australia tours last winter, which prompted a midnight curfew for the players while in Sri Lanka and India for the T20 World Cup in February.

Before the Ashes, white ball captain Harry Brook was struck by a nightclub ‌bouncer in New Zealand after being denied entry to ​the venue, while opener Ben Duckett was caught ‌on camera under the influence of alcohol following ​the second Ashes Test in Australia.

Published on Jun 08, 2026