Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson found not guilty; England name squad for 3rd NZ Test

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson are set to return to England’s Test setup after being cleared of violent conduct following the nightclub controversy that rocked the team’s tour earlier this month. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed the outcome of its disciplinary hearing on Saturday while simultaneously announcing the squad for the third and final Test against New Zealand.

The development comes as a major boost for England, who have welcomed back several senior players for the Nottingham Test. While both Stokes and Atkinson were found to have breached certain contractual obligations relating to player conduct, the ECB concluded that neither player was responsible for any violent behaviour during the incident.

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson return to England Test squad after nightclub row

England have recalled Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson for the third Test against New Zealand after the duo missed the second match following the nightclub controversy.

The squad also sees the return of Ollie Robinson and wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith. Meanwhile, youngsters Rew and Baker have dropped out of the squad after featuring in England’s plans earlier in the series.

Ben Stokes will continue to lead the side as England look to finish the series strongly against New Zealand. The return of Atkinson further strengthens the pace attack, while Robinson adds another experienced bowling option for the hosts.

England’s selectors have largely retained the core group from the previous Test while bringing back several senior names following the conclusion of the disciplinary process.

Ben Stokes avoids punishment as England unveil squad for third New Zealand Test

In its official statement, the ECB confirmed that both players had been found guilty of breaching contractual obligations but were cleared of any involvement in violent conduct. The ECB said:

“The pair will return to the squad ahead of our final Test match of the series in Nottingham. Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been included in the England Men’s squad for the third Rothesay Test against New Zealand following the conclusion of an ECB disciplinary hearing in relation to their conduct in the early hours of Monday 8 June.”

The board added that both players had breached standards expected from England cricketers.

“Stokes and Atkinson were found to have breached specific contractual obligations that require England players to at all times maintain the highest standards of conduct and act in the best interests of England cricket.”

As part of the disciplinary outcome, both players received written warnings.

“In addition to not being considered for selection for the second Rothesay Test, they have both been given a written warning as to their conduct.”

However, the ECB made it clear that neither player was responsible for any violent actions. The statement further clarified Ben Stokes’ role in the incident.

“It was also concluded that no blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub.”

“Stokes was not involved in the altercation and did not witness either incident.”

Regarding Atkinson, the ECB stated:

“The evidence the ECB has seen demonstrates that Atkinson was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate on either occasion.”

England third Test squad vs New Zealand

Ben Stokes (captain), Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith and Josh Tongue.