England and Wales Cricket Board is coping with one other off-field controversy after a late-night incident involving captain Ben Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson. The board confirmed that an investigation has been launched into an alleged “breach of team protocols” involving the 2 players.
The probe began after they were reportedly seen at a nightclub within the early hours of Monday, shortly after the conclusion of the opening Test against the Latest Zealand national cricket team at Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Although the complete details of the incident haven’t yet been revealed, the matter has turn out to be serious enough for the Cricket Regulator to step in and monitor the investigation.
“The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the primary Men’s Test against Latest Zealand,” ECB said in an announcement.
“Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub within the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place. We’re currently looking for further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test might be made in the end,” the statement read further.
The unexpected investigation has forced the ECB to pause its selection process, with the board confirming that the squad announcement for the second Test might be delayed until a choice is made on whether captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson will face suspension or disciplinary measures.
Will Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson Face Disciplinary Motion?
Although the term “breach of team protocols” doesn’t necessarily suggest any criminal activity, it is obvious that the England and Wales Cricket Board is taking the matter very seriously. Based on the findings of the investigation, captain Ben Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson could face consequences starting from violating team curfew rules to being linked to an inappropriate public incident.
The situation has also raised concerns over England’s preparations for the second Test. Losing a key bowler like Atkinson, and even worse, skipper Stokes, resulting from disciplinary motion could be a serious setback for the team ahead of a vital match within the series.
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