Ben Stokes' England captaincy under the microscope after 'breach of team protocols'

The incident happened at a nightclub. according to a statement by the ECB, and is being investigated with both players now set to miss the second Test, starting at The Oval on 17 June.

The statement from the ECB said: "The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first Men's Test against New Zealand.

"Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place. We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test will be made in due course.

"The Cricket Regulator has been informed and we will provide a further update when possible."

The current England team have been criticised for their off-the-field behaviour in the last year, with vice-captain Harry Brook fined and reprimanded after a late-night incident involving a bouncer in New Zealand.

Ben Duckett was filmed being drunk on a night out during a controversial mid-series break when playing against Australia with the team culture coming under intense scrutiny.

Rob Key, England's managing director, denied that the team had a "drinking problem" in the aftermath of the Ashes but conceded: "There's two or three players that can be irresponsible with alcohol given that opportunity."

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