England drops Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson over nightclub curfew breach

England’s cricket board has removed captain Ben Stokes and fast‑bowler Gus Atkinson from the squad for the second Test against New Zealand while an investigation into a nightclub incident proceeds. The pair violated a midnight curfew introduced after the Ashes tour, and a member of England’s security staff was reportedly struck by a Saracens rugby player during the altercation. The England and Wales Cricket Board said the breach of team protocols means the two players are unavailable for selection.

Coach Rob Key expressed anger at the breach and questioned the team’s discipline, while former captain Joe Root has been named interim skipper for the match at The Oval on June 17. The incident adds to scrutiny of England’s squad culture following a disappointing Ashes series and previous disciplinary issues.