Brendon McCullum admits he is “worried” about Ben Stokes after the nightclub incident that led to the England captain being dropped for the second Test against New Zealand. McCullum was speaking about Stokes for the first time since an incident at a nightclub following the first Test victory against New Zealand, which also led to Gus Atkinson being dropped. Asked if the incident was serious enough for Stokes to lose the captaincy, McCullum said: “When I first found out, I was slightly bewildered. You go
through a range of emotions. Got Sky? Watch England vs NZ live on the Sky Sports appNot got Sky? Get instant access with NOW – no contract “You go from being bewildered, to angry, to gutted. From the progress that we talked about and discussed over these six months, and what we’re trying to do and the improvements we want to make, which includes the standards we set for ourselves. “To hear about this was incredibly gutting.” He added: “Quickly through talking to Ben and
Gus, my emotion turned to worry and concern – for Ben in particular – and how we support these guys. “That’s not overlooking the fact they haven’t lived up to the standards we set for ourselves.” McCullum also revealed four changes to England’s XI for the Test at The Oval, starting on Wednesday – live on Sky Sports – with Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker making their Test debuts. Matthew Fisher and Jofra Archer are also included, while James Rew will make his debut if
Jamie Smith is unable to play as he awaits the birth of his child. England XI to play New Zealand: Emilio Gay, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root (C), Harry Brook, Jamie Smith/James Rew, Jordan Cox, Jofra Archer, Josh Tongue, Matthew Fisher, Sonny Baker. England vs New Zealand – results and schedule All times UK and Ireland, all games live on Sky Sports First Test (Lord’s) – England won by 115 runsSecond Test (The Kia Oval) – June 17-21 (11am)Third Test (Trent Bridge) – June
25-29 (11am) Watch the second Test of the England vs New Zealand series live on Sky Sports from June 17.
Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum, England vs New Zealand, second Test, The Oval, Gus Atkinson, Jordan Cox, Sonny Baker, Matthew Fisher, Jofra Archer, James Rew, Jamie Smith
So he was mad at a nightclub but dropped for cricket?? Seems kinda soft honestly.
I didn’t even know he got dropped as captain like that. McCullum sounds worried, but also angry?? Like which one is it. Also who even decides four changes, seems random.
“Got Sky? Watch England vs NZ” ok but why is that in the article lol. Anyway sounds like Stokes can’t catch a break, and Atkinson got booted too so it’s like the whole squad paying for one incident. I’m guessing it was worse than they say, or maybe it’s just PR and gambling or something.
This is gutting?? Man they act like it’s a family tragedy. If it was “just a nightclub” then drop the captain? Seems like they’re trying to make an example. Also Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker debuts… so punishment turned into fresh meat, love that for them. Maybe Stokes should’ve stayed home instead of being out, idk.