Greg Chappell defends Ben Stokes amid alcohol controversy

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 27, 2026, 4:16 PM

Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Greg Chappell defends Ben Stokes amid alcohol controversy
Summary

Former Australia captain Greg Chappell has spoken out in support of Ben Stokes following an alcohol row involving Stokes and teammate Gus Atkinson. The incident, which occurred after the first Test against New Zealand, led to both players being dropped for the second Test. Chappell argues that cricketers should not be expected to serve as moral role models, emphasizing that they are human and prone to the same flaws as anyone else. The wider debate on the drinking culture in cricket has intensified following an independent investigation that cleared both players of misconduct but resulted in written warnings.

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By the Numbers
  • Chappell argues cricketers are not role models and face unrealistic expectations.
  • Stokes and Atkinson were dropped after breaching curfew during a nightclub incident.
  • An investigation cleared both players of wrongdoing but issued conduct warnings.
  • Chappell highlights the pressures athletes face compared to the general public.
  • The incident has sparked a broader debate on alcohol culture in cricket.
Latest Updates
  • 4:16 PMYahoo Sports'Cricketers are not role model': Greg Chappell weighs in on England's alchohol row involving Stokes-Atkinson
What they're saying
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With Ben Stokes back to leading England in the third test vs. NZ, former Australian great Greg Chappell was quick to take the all-rounder's side and argued that cricketers don't need to be role models.

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