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England captain Stokes left out of second test v New Zealand

Wednesday, 10 June 2026 18:42

By Reuters

England captain Ben Stokes and bowler Gus Atkinson have both been left out of the second test against New Zealand starting next week at The Oval, the ECB said on Wednesday.

The move follows reports of a break of curfew and a reported nightclub incident after England's win in the first test.

"The England & Wales Cricket Board can confirm that, given the ongoing investigation, Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have not been made available for selection for the Rothesay second Test against New Zealand, which starts at the Kia Oval on Wednesday 17 June.

"Yorkshire batter Joe Root will lead the team as interim captain."

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