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Stokes and Atkinson found to be blameless for 'violent conduct' as pair return to squad
Key takeaways
- Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were made unavailable for England's defeat by New Zealand in the second Test
- They breached the team's midnight curfew and were present when a member of security staff was struck by a Saracens rugby player.
- Both men have been given a written a warning, with no further action added to their removal from the second Test.
Why this matters: a developing story that could shape the day's news cycle.
Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were made unavailable for England's defeat by New Zealand in the second Test
Cricket Correspondent at The Kia Oval Published21 June 2026, 15:59 BSTUpdated 5 minutes ago Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson breached "contractual obligations" but were blameless for "violent conduct" in a London nightclub, according to an investigation.
Captain Stokes and pace bowler Atkinson were made unavailable for England's second Test defeat by New Zealand pending an inquiry into events that unfolded when they were out celebrating victory in the first Test two weeks ago.
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