McCullum Insists There’s No Rift with Stokes After Turmoil in English Cricket
McCullum said England followed a process after the night out probe, and Stokes and Gus Atkinson return for the deciding Test.
- England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson return to the squad for the third and deciding Test at Trent Bridge starting Thursday, following their absence from last week's second Test defeat.
- Both players were dropped after they 'breached specific contractual obligations' on a night out at Lord's, though the Cricket Regulator ruled there was insufficient evidence to justify further punishment.
- Coach Brendon McCullum denied reports of a rift with his 'good friend' Stokes on Tuesday, stating the captain looked 'outstanding' and 'fantastic' during their recent catchup.
- Wicketkeeper Jamie Smith returns from paternity leave to replace James Rew, while Stokes replaces Jordan Cox and Matthew Fisher exits to accommodate Atkinson's return.
- With the series tied 1-1 following England's 253-run defeat at The Oval, England faces defending a record of not losing a home series of at least three Tests in 14 years.
44 Articles
44 Articles
Sydney Morning Herald
‘Stupid and naive’: Ben Stokes apologises after nightclub scandal
Ben Stokes has apologised to England teammates for his part in the two-week curfew saga that caused chaos and admitted he has considered giving away the captaincy.
‘Man enough to apologise’: Ben Stokes takes responsibility after England axe
Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were dropped from the second Test against New Zealand after breaking a midnight curfew during an incident at a London nightclub, following England's series-opening win at Lord's.
Brendon McCullum reveals Ben Stokes showdown as England respond to rift rumours
Brendon McCullum has revealed a candid confrontation with Ben Stokes over rumours surrounding their relationship, insisting the England captain was just as perplexed by the speculation as he was.The England head coach disclosed that he quizzed Stokes directly after the pair reunited ahead of the decisive third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, with both men dismissing suggestions of tension behind the scenes.Stokes returns to lead Englan…
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