England cricket faces questions after Stokes, Atkinson cleared
7 reported4 unconfirmed
According to a BBC News report, English cricket is dealing with the fallout from another controversy after captain Ben Stokes and pace bowler Gus Atkinson were cleared of any further action following an incident at a London nightclub. Both have returned to the squad for the third Test against New Zealand starting Thursday at Trent Bridge. The report states that questions remain over the entire England set-up, including Stokes' relationship with coach Brendon McCullum and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). A midnight curfew, enforced after the Ashes tour, was breached, but England director of cricket Rob Key revealed Atkinson did not know the curfew was in force. Coach McCullum said there was "ambiguity" over the curfew's terms and that it had not been put in writing. The report notes that England lost the second Test and could face pressure for leadership changes if they lose the series against New Zealand.
What’s reported
Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson will face no further action after a nightclub incident and have returned for the third Test against New Zealand.
The third Test starts Thursday at Trent Bridge.
A midnight curfew was enforced after the Ashes tour and was breached by Stokes and Atkinson.
England director of cricket Rob Key said Atkinson did not know the curfew was in force.
Coach Brendon McCullum said there was "ambiguity" over the curfew's terms and it had not been put in writing.
England lost the second Test after Stokes was absent.
The report says pressure for leadership changes could be "irresistible" if England lose the series.
Open questions
The exact nature of the nightclub incident involving Stokes and Atkinson.
Whether Stokes' relationship with coach McCullum or the ECB has been permanently affected.
Who knew about the curfew and how it was communicated to players.
What consequences, if any, the ECB leadership might face if England lose the series.
Key figures
Ben Stokes, England captain
Gus Atkinson, England pace bowler
Brendon McCullum, England coach
Rob Key, England director of cricket
Richard Gould, ECB chief executive
Richard Thompson, ECB chair
Michael Vaughan, former England captain
Alastair Cook, former England captain
Tim Bostock, Durham chief executive
Sources: BBC News
