Key facts
- Ollie Robinson has been ruled out of England's second test against New Zealand with a knee injury.
- Robinson took 7 wickets in the first test, which England won by 115 runs.
- Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were dropped from the squad following an investigation into a nightclub incident.
- Henry Crocombe has been called up as cover for Robinson.
- Joe Root will captain the team in the absence of Ben Stokes.
England's bowling attack has suffered another blow with fast bowler Ollie Robinson ruled out of the second test against New Zealand due to a knee injury. Robinson took seven wickets in the series opener, which England won by 115 runs. His absence follows the decision to drop captain Ben Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson from the squad while they are investigated for an alleged breach of team protocols during a night out after the first test.
Atkinson had a strong performance in the first test, taking five wickets in New Zealand's second innings to secure England's victory. Robinson will remain with the squad to undergo rehabilitation and is expected to be available for the third test, which begins on June 25. Uncapped Henry Crocombe has been brought in as cover.
The England and Wales Cricket Board is investigating the incident, which reportedly involved a member of England's security staff being struck by a rugby player. This situation adds further scrutiny to the professionalism and culture surrounding the England test team, particularly after a challenging Ashes tour.