Stokes and Atkinson return to England squad for third New Zealand Test
Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been named in England's squad for the third Test against New Zealand starting June 25 at Trent Bridge. The duo were made unavailable for the second Test following an incident at a London nightclub after England's win in the first Test. Stokes will return as captain.
Following a disciplinary hearing on Monday, the ECB confirmed "that no blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub." The board added that "Stokes was not involved in the altercation" and that Atkinson "was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate."
Both players were found in breach of contractual obligations regarding conduct standards and received a written warning in addition to being unavailable for the second Test.
"People always have a difference of opinion… From my point of view, I have been speaking to Ben every day since we had the incident to try and be supportive," said head coach Brendon McCullum.
"You've got to separate the actions from the man… I was disappointed in the actions and us not meeting the standards… but then you support the man."
McCullum added: "I'm looking forward to next week. It'd be nice to have the opportunity to try and close out a series win against the very good New Zealand side."
England also made squad changes following their defeat in the second Test. Debutants James Rew and Sonny Baker have been dropped alongside Henry Crocombe. Jamie Smith, who missed the second Test on paternity leave, is expected to return.
England squad for third Test: Ben Stokes (C), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue
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