Ben Stokes (Getty Images)

New Delhi: England’s preparations for the second Test against New Zealand have been overshadowed by the controversy regarding the captain. ben stokes And all-rounder Gus Atkinson is under investigation for alleged breach of team protocol.The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Tuesday confirmed it is investigating the incident involving the two players following the conclusion of the first Test against New Zealand. England won the first match of the three-Test series at Lord’s by 115 runs.According to an official ECB statement, Stokes and Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident occurred.“The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocol following the conclusion of the first men’s Test against New Zealand,” the board said in a statement.“Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident occurred.”The ECB said it is currently gathering additional information before deciding on any further action.“We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test will be made in due course.”This development has raised questions over the availability of both players for the second Test, with England yet to announce their squad for the match.

The ECB also confirmed that the matter has been reported to the cricket regulator.“The cricket regulator has been informed and we will provide further updates whenever possible.”The incident has come as an unwanted distraction for England, especially as Stokes was captaining the team and Atkinson had emerged as one of the key performers in the opening Test. The fast bowler finished the match with seven wickets and played an important role in England’s victory.At this time, the ECB has not disclosed the nature of the incident and more information is expected once the investigation is completed.The second Test between England and New Zealand is to be played at the Oval in London from June 17.