ECB clears Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson of violence in nightclub incident
England cricketers Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been cleared of violent conduct by the ECB following an investigation into a London nightclub altercation, though both received written warnings for breaching curfew.
The duo were previously omitted from the recent second Test defeat by New Zealand while authorities looked into the events that occurred while celebrating their first Test victory.
An England and Wales Cricket Board disciplinary hearing concluded the pair breached specific contractual obligations requiring players to maintain the highest standards of conduct.
Unprovoked Attack
According to the findings, the England captain and the pace bowler were present when a team security guard was struck by Saracens rugby player Totoa Avuaa.
The ECB stated that Avuaa attacked both the fast bowler and the security official, leaving the latter bloodied and requiring medical attention.
“No blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub.”
The governing body confirmed that the 33-year-old skipper was not involved in the altercation and did not witness either incident.
Return for Trent Bridge Decider
Evidence demonstrated that the Surrey paceman was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate on either occasion.
A separate inquiry conducted by the Cricket Regulator also determined that neither player has any further case to answer.
Following their omission from the team’s recent loss, both men have been reinstated to the squad for the series-deciding third Test against the Black Caps.
The crucial match begins on Thursday at Trent Bridge, with the returning all-rounder immediately restored to his leadership role.
