Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson cleared after ECB nightclub investigation

England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson have been cleared to return to international cricket after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) completed its investigation into a nightclub incident that saw both players suspended for the second Test against New Zealand.

The pair were left out of England’s squad for the second Test following allegations of misconduct after the team's victory in the opening match of the series. However, the ECB's independent Cricket Regulator found no evidence linking either player to any wrongdoing during the incident.

Investigation finds no misconduct

The controversy began when Stokes and Atkinson stayed out beyond the team’s expected curfew following England’s win at Lord’s. While both players were found to have breached team discipline rules, investigators concluded they were not responsible for the disturbance that occurred at a London nightclub.

According to the findings, Stokes was not involved in the incident and did not witness it. Atkinson, meanwhile, was reportedly the victim of two unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate. As a result, neither player will face further disciplinary action.

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“The Cricket Regulator’s role is to determine whether any participant or player has breached any applicable ECB Cricket Regulations. The investigation followed multiple lines of enquiry to gather and assess evidence in relation to the events in question."

The cricket regulator also added, “Having carefully reviewed all currently available information, the Cricket Regulator has determined that there is insufficient evidence to establish that any regulatory breach occurred. Accordingly, no further action will be taken against either player.”

McCullum admits curfew rules were unclear

England head coach Brendon McCullum acknowledged that confusion over team curfew regulations contributed to the situation. He admitted that the rules had not been formally documented and were instead communicated informally within the squad.

McCullum said the lack of clearly written guidelines created uncertainty about expectations and accepted that the management team must take responsibility for improving communication. He added that England would introduce clearer policies to avoid similar situations in the future.

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With the investigation now closed, Stokes is set to resume captaincy duties for the third and final Test at Trent Bridge. Atkinson has also been restored to the squad as England prepare for the series decider.

England missed the influence of both players during the second Test, where New Zealand bounced back with a convincing victory to level the series 1-1. The return of Stokes and Atkinson is expected to strengthen the hosts as they look to secure a series win and move on from an off-field controversy that briefly overshadowed their campaign.