Key facts
- England captain Ben Stokes has been dropped from the Test team.
- Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson breached a team curfew by attending a nightclub.
- The incident occurred after England's victory over New Zealand on Sunday.
- The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is investigating the breach of protocols.
- Joe Root has been appointed interim captain for the second Test match.
- Stokes' future as captain and player is reportedly being considered.
English cricket captain Ben Stokes has been dropped from the Test team following a breach of team protocols, just weeks after the squad faced criticism for unprofessional conduct during an Ashes tour. Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson were reportedly present at a nightclub after midnight on Sunday, violating a curfew that had been reimposed following the Ashes tour. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is investigating the incident, which allegedly involved a member of England's security staff being injured.
This development places England in a difficult position as they aim for a reset after a humiliating Ashes series where players faced scrutiny for their drinking culture. Stokes, a key figure in England's World Cup wins and a long-standing captain, is now facing questions about his future in the role. The ECB has appointed Joe Root as interim captain for the upcoming second Test, while Harry Brook, who has his own disciplinary history, was not given the captaincy. Several former England captains have suggested that while Stokes' actions were misguided, they should not result in his dismissal from the team or captaincy.