England will head into the second Test against New Zealand without captain Ben Stokes, after he was left out of the squad while an investigation continues into a breach of team protocol.

 The England and Wales Cricket Board confirmed that Stokes and Surrey fast bowler Gus Atkinson will both miss the match at The Oval, which begins next Wednesday. 

The decision comes as officials continue looking into events surrounding a late night incident earlier this week. In Stokes’ absence, former captain Joe Root will step in as interim skipper, taking charge of the side once again despite Harry Brook being the current vice-captain across formats. Brook had been expected by many to lead the team, but the responsibility has instead returned to Root for this Test as England reshuffles their leadership options.

Jofra Archer returns to the squad to strengthen the bowling attack, while Essex batter Jordan Cox earns a call-up, replacing the two absent players in the 15-man group. England go into the second Test holding a 1-0 lead after their 115-run win at Lord’s, but that victory was overshadowed by reports that Stokes and Atkinson had breached a midnight curfew during the series. The situation escalated further following reports of an incident at a Chelsea nightclub involving members of the touring party and security staff, prompting further attention on team discipline.