Ben Stokes unlikely to feature in England squad for second Test against New Zealand
The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 5:47 PM
Last updated Jun 9, 2026
Ben Stokes is expected to be absent from England's squad for the second Test against New Zealand due to a request for time to consider his long-term future. This follows a nightclub incident that has prompted an ongoing investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board. Stokes's captaincy may also be temporarily paused as the ECB seeks to address cultural issues within the men's Test team ahead of the Women's World Cup, starting Friday. The squad announcement is anticipated within the next 48 hours.
- •Stokes requests space following a nightclub incident.
- •ECB investigates the cultural environment of the men's Test team.
- •Squad announcement expected within 48 hours.
- •Women's World Cup begins on Friday.
- •Stokes's captaincy may be temporarily suspended.
- 5:47 PMThe Guardian Sport — Ben Stokes set to be left out of England squad for second New Zealand Test
"England captain considering his long-term future ECB continuing investigation into nightclub incident Ben Stokes is highly unlikely to be included in England’s squad for the second Test against New Zealand after the 35-year-old asked for space and time to consider his long-term future amid the fallout from a nightclub incident in the early hours of Monday morning. The England and Wales Cricket Board is determined to bring the latest furore surrounding the culture of the men’s Test team under control before the start of the Women’s World Cup on Friday, with a temporary end to Stokes’s time as captain expected to be confirmed when the squad is announced within the next 48 hours. Continue reading...
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