Ben Stokes Removed from Captaincy Amid Nightclub Incident

The England Cricket Board has taken significant action by removing Ben Stokes from his captaincy and the Test squad due to a nightclub incident. Joe Root will lead the team in the upcoming second Test against New Zealand. Coach Brendon McCullum has expressed his concern for Stokes, emphasizing the importance of support during this challenging time. As the investigation continues, fans are eager for updates on Stokes' future in the team. The second Test is set to take place at the Kennington Oval, where England currently leads the series 1-0.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 15, 2026, 23:20 IST

ECB Takes Action Against Stokes

The England Cricket Board (ECB) has decided to strip Ben Stokes of his captaincy and exclude him from the Test squad following a nightclub incident. The board is currently conducting an investigation, and further details have yet to be disclosed. Stokes, along with Gus Atkinson, was involved in an incident after England's victory over New Zealand in the first Test of their three-match series. Joe Root has stepped in as captain for the upcoming second Test.

As fans await updates regarding Stokes' future, England's head coach Brendon McCullum has addressed the situation. He expressed his concern for Stokes and mentioned that he has been in regular contact with him. McCullum stated, "Our priority is Ben; we want to ensure he feels supported and is in communication with us. Other matters will be resolved in due course. I care deeply for him and encourage him to make decisions that bring him joy and satisfaction."

Jordan Cox and Jofra Archer have been added to the Test squad for the second match, which is set to take place from June 17 to 21 at the Kennington Oval in London.

England Leads the Series 1-0

England commenced the three-match series with a commanding 115-run victory in the first Test at Lord's Cricket Ground. Ollie Robinson was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance, taking five wickets in New Zealand's first innings and contributing 29 runs in England's second innings. This match marked Robinson's return to Test cricket after a hiatus since February 2024.

England Squad for 2nd Test: Joe Root (Captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, James Rew, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue