Ben Stokes' captaincy in doubt after nightclub curfew breach and alcohol ban talk

England captain Ben Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson were dropped from the upcoming Oval Test against New Zealand after they broke a team curfew at a nightclub, an incident that also involved a confrontation with rugby player Totoa Auvaa. The England and Wales Cricket Board has opened an investigation and referred the matter to the Cricket Regulator.

ECB managing director Rob Key said the board will avoid “rash decisions” but is reviewing the team's code of conduct, including the possibility of an outright alcohol ban for England cricketers. Key did not rule out the removal of Stokes as captain, noting that the decision will be based on what is best for the team and for Stokes personally. The board has previously appointed former captain Joe Root as interim leader while exploring further disciplinary measures.