Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson dropped for second Test vs New Zealand

Ben Stokes (Pic: AFP)

England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were omitted from the 15-man squad for the upcoming second Test against New Zealand on Wednesday. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the decision amid an active investigation into the duo's alleged involvement in a nightclub altercation.

"The England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB) can confirm that, given the ongoing investigation, Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have not been made available for selection for the Rothesay second Test against New Zealand, which starts at the Kia Oval on Wednesday 17 June. Yorkshire batter Joe Root will lead the team as Interim Captain," the ECB said in an official statement.

To fill the vacancies in the squad, Sussex speedster Jofra Archer and Essex batsman Jordan Cox have been drafted into the squad.

Media reports indicate that Stokes and teammate Atkinson were allegedly caught up in a late-night scuffle that also involved a rugby player. The incident reportedly transpired in the early hours of Monday morning, just hours after England completed a 115-run victory over New Zealand in the opening Test of the home summer at Lord's.

Speculation regarding Stokes' international future has intensified following the controversy. On Tuesday, 'TalkSport' reported that the star all-rounder is seriously considering stepping down from the captaincy and may even announce his retirement from international cricket.

Before dropping the players, the ECB had publicly acknowledged that it was looking into a serious breach of team protocols that took place right after the conclusion of the first Test match.

Joe Root set to step in as England captain

In the absence of Stokes, veteran batsman Joe Root has been appointed interim captain to lead the side. The second Test match is scheduled to take place at The Oval from June 17 to 21.

Root has led in 64 Tests, the most by an Englishman, during which England won 27 and lost 26 games, besides 11 draws. The 35-year-old, who is England's all-time leading run-scorer, stepped down after a sequence of one win in 17 Tests in 2022.

England currently lead the three-match series 1-0 after their 115-run win at Lord's.

(With PTI inputs)