Stokes and Atkinson Cleared of Violent Conduct After Nightclub Incident
Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were ruled blameless for violent conduct following an incident at a London nightclub, though both breached "contractual obligations," according to an official investigation.
Both players were made unavailable for England's second Test defeat by New Zealand while an inquiry was conducted into events that occurred during celebrations after England's first Test victory two weeks prior.
Stokes, the England captain, and pace bowler Atkinson violated the team's midnight curfew and were present when a member of England's security staff was struck by a Saracens rugby player.
A disciplinary hearing held by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) concluded that Stokes and Atkinson had "breached specific contractual obligations that require England players to at all times maintain the highest standards of conduct and act in the best interests of England cricket."
Both players received written warnings, with no further sanctions beyond their exclusion from the second Test. They have since been named in the squad for the deciding Test at Trent Bridge, commencing Thursday, with Stokes reinstated as captain.
In addition, a separate inquiry by the Cricket Regulator determined that Stokes and Atkinson have no further case to answer.
Details of the Nightclub Incident
The security staff member was left bloodied and required medical attention after being struck by Saracens player Totoa Avuaa. The ECB statement indicated that Avuaa attacked both Atkinson and the security guard.
"No blame should be attached to the players for violent conduct at the nightclub," said the ECB.
"Stokes was not involved in the altercation and did not witness either incident.
The evidence the ECB has seen demonstrates that Atkinson was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate on either occasion."
