Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson verdict revealed by cricket regulator after investigation

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been cleared of breaching the ECB’s regulations.

It follows an investigation by the Cricket Regulator into a nightclub incident following the first Test against New Zealand.

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The pair were suspended for the second Test for breaking curfew on Sunday, June 7.

However, it has now been confirmed that Stokes and Atkinson were not involved in a fight which broke out at the London nightclub.

They had been present at the time when the incident occurred involving an ECB security guard and a Saracens rugby player.

Stokes and Atkinson will return to the side for the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, which starts on Thursday.

Cricket Regulator statement

In a statement, the Cricket Regulator explained: “The Cricket Regulator has concluded its investigation into the events of 7–8 June involving Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson.

“The Cricket Regulator’s role is to determine whether any participant or player has breached any applicable ECB Cricket Regulations.

“The investigation followed multiple lines of enquiry to gather and assess evidence in relation to the events in question.

“Having carefully reviewed all currently available information, the Cricket Regulator has determined that there is insufficient evidence to establish that any regulatory breach occurred.

“Accordingly, no further action will be taken against either player.

“The Cricket Regulator would like to thank all those involved for their cooperation throughout the investigation.”

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Stokes had been replaced as captain for the second Test by Joe Root following his suspension.

The all-rounder subsequently returned to county cricket to represent Durham.

However, both he and Atkinson were withdrawn from their County Championship games at the ECB’s request before returning to the England squad.

England returns

Confirming their return to the side, the ECB said: “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.

“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.

“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.

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“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.

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

New Zealand won the second Test at the Oval by 253 runs to level the three-match series at 1-1.