Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson in trouble as ECB investigates nightclub incident after Lord's Test
Ben Stokes (Source: Getty Images)
Published - 08 Jun 2026, 10:07 PM• Read time - 2 mins
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has launched an investigation into an incident involving England Test captain Ben Stokes and all-rounder Gus Atkison, following their team’s 115-run victory in the first Test against New Zealand at Lord’s.
According to a statement, the incident took place in the early hours of Monday, June 8, when both players were present at a nightclub. The board said that it will be investigating the breach of team protocols and is seeking further information on the matter.
ECB also hinted at making changes to the squad for the second Test against New Zealand, beginning on June 17 at the Oval.
"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,” said ECB in a statement.
Following England’s victory in the first Test, Stokes had said that he was looking to share a proper beer with his teammates to celebrate. England had put a midnight curfew for players and staff following the Ashes 2025-26 in Australia, where their off-field behaviour came under heavy scrutiny.
Ben Stokes' past controversies
Harry Brook was fined and reprimanded following a late-night incident involving a bouncer, while Jacob Bethell received a warning for his conduct.
Meanwhile, it’s not the first time that Ben Stokes has been involved in off-field disciplinary issues. He got involved in a late-night brawl after an ODI in Bristol in 2017 and was fined and handed a back-dated suspension for bringing the game into disrepute by the ECB's cricket discipline commission.
