Stokes apologises for curfew breach, cites distress over Root criticism
Ben Stokes has apologised to teammates for breaching the squad curfew and suspended his role for the second Test, revealing he was deeply affected by the public backlash directed at stand-in captain Joe Root.
England cricket captain Ben Stokes has formally apologised to his teammates for breaching the squad curfew, an infraction that resulted in his suspension for the second Test against New Zealand. Stokes, who resumed his captaincy duties on Tuesday, stated that addressing the squad was among the first actions he took upon returning to the role, acknowledging the disruption caused to the team environment.
The disciplinary issue stemmed from an incident at a London nightclub where an England security official was reportedly struck by a rugby player from Saracens. Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson were dropped from the squad pending an inquiry after breaching a midnight curfew established following England’s performance in the Ashes series. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) issued written warnings to both players, while the independent Cricket Regulator determined there was no case to pursue against Stokes.
Stokes expressed that he was deeply hurt by the public criticism directed at Joe Root during the controversy. Root, who served as interim captain, led England to a 253-run defeat at the Oval in the second Test. Stokes noted that witnessing the effect the situation had on Root was difficult, praising the stand-in captain’s courage in stepping up despite the pressure and public scrutiny.
The incident extended beyond the playing group, affecting debutants and those outside the immediate squad. Stokes acknowledged that the controversy overshadowed the debut days of new players, admitting it was irresponsible for the leadership to allow an external situation to take precedence. He emphasised the need for leaders to take responsibility and address those affected, stating it would be naive not to acknowledge the impact on the wider team.
Stokes also revealed he spoke frequently with Atkinson during the suspension period, offering advice to the younger player experiencing off-field controversy for the first time. Both players have been recalled to the squad for the series-deciding third Test at Trent Bridge. Stokes declined to provide assurances regarding his long-term future as captain, stating his full focus is on the upcoming match and maintaining unity within the group.
