McCullum confirms Stokes' return for Test after nightclub incident
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 21, 2026, 1:49 PM
Last updated Jun 21, 2026
Brendon McCullum, England's head coach, stated that Ben Stokes' recent nightclub incident has not affected their working relationship. Stokes is set to resume his role as captain for the third Test against New Zealand following a brief absence. McCullum emphasized their mutual respect and shared vision for the team, despite the incident involving a curfew breach with teammate Gus Atkinson. The investigation remains ongoing as England looks to recover from a heavy defeat in the second Test at The Oval.
- •Stokes to captain England in the third Test against New Zealand.
- •McCullum insists Stokes' actions did not impact their relationship.
- •Stokes and Atkinson were dropped following a nightclub incident.
- •The ongoing investigation into the incident remains incomplete.
- •England aims to bounce back after a 253-run defeat at The Oval.
- 12:58 PMYahoo Sports — 'Ben Stokes and I are tight': Brendon McCullum clears the air on rumours ahead of 3rd test against New Zealand
"England coach Brendon McCullum has vehemently denied any rift with Test captain Ben Stokes, calling the rumours "baseless" and "amusing." Following a face-to-face discussion, McCullum affirmed their strong friendship and professional bond remain intact, despite recent controversies including a team curfew breach. He expressed immense respect for Stokes' leadership, emphasizing that minor setbacks do not diminish his captain's standing.
"Brendon McCullum insists Ben Stokes' actions have not impacted their working relationship as England's head coach prepares to welcome his captain back for the third Test against New Zealand.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 24, 2026, 12:58 PM'Ben Stokes and I are tight': Brendon McCullum clears the air on rumours ahead of 3rd test against New Zealand
England coach Brendon McCullum has vehemently denied any rift with Test captain Ben Stokes, calling the rumours "baseless" and "amusing." Following a face-to-face discussion, McCullum affirmed their strong friendship and professional bond remain intact, despite recent controversies including a team curfew breach. He expressed immense respect for Stokes' leadership, emphasizing that minor setbacks do not diminish his captain's standing.
- Sky Sports—'We share same vision' - McCullum says Stokes has not tarnished relationship
Brendon McCullum insists Ben Stokes' actions have not impacted their working relationship as England's head coach prepares to welcome his captain back for the third Test against New Zealand.
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