England head coach Brendon McCullum says he is deeply concerned about Ben Stokes' wellbeing after the England captain and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were omitted from the second Test against New Zealand following a nightclub incident that breached team rules.
McCullum admitted feeling “bewildered,” “angry” and “gutted” when he first learned of the incident, but said his focus has since shifted toward supporting Stokes through a difficult period.
Stokes and Atkinson were left out of England’s squad for the second Test at The Oval after breaking the team's strict midnight curfew.
The pair were reportedly present during an incident involving an England security liaison officer and a Saracens rugby player. The security staff member was allegedly struck during the altercation and required medical attention.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Cricket Regulator have launched investigations into the matter.
McCullum says concern replaced anger
Speaking to reporters on Monday, McCullum described the emotional impact of learning about the incident.
“You go from being bewildered, to angry, to gutted,” McCullum said.
“Quickly through talking to Ben and Gus, my emotion turned to worry and concern — for Ben in particular.”
The England coach said it was difficult to hear about the incident because Stokes had played a major role in establishing the team's culture and helping implement the curfew policy.
“To hear about this was incredibly gutting,” McCullum said.
Daily contact with England captain
McCullum revealed he has spoken with Stokes every day since the incident and remains focused on supporting him rather than discussing leadership decisions.
“Our concern is with Ben, our concern is handling that situation, making sure we look after him, that he feels supported by us and in communication with us,” he said.
“We need to make sure we look after him, rally around him, and in time we'll get on to those sorts of decisions.”
McCullum added that Stokes has experienced a range of emotions since the incident but declined to share details out of respect for their relationship and confidentiality.
Future as Test captain remains uncertain
When asked whether Stokes would return as England’s Test captain, McCullum refused to make any commitments. “We need to go through a process,” he said.
The New Zealander praised Stokes’ contribution over the last four years, describing him as an “unbelievable captain” who helped shape the current England environment and led the side to significant success.
“What will be will be down the line. Those decisions are not for now,” McCullum said.
His comments have further fueled uncertainty about Stokes’ long-term future as captain.
Both Stokes and Atkinson remain unavailable for selection while investigations continue. Stokes has since returned to training with Durham and is expected to feature in their upcoming County Championship match against Northamptonshire, which begins on Friday.
However, depending on the outcome of the ECB inquiry, he could also miss the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge.
The ECB is reportedly hoping to conclude its investigation quickly, possibly within days.
Concerns over England’s off-field issues
The latest controversy has renewed scrutiny of England’s off-field culture.
Vice-captain Harry Brook was punched by a bouncer outside a nightclub in Wellington in October, while videos during the Ashes tour showed England players drinking during a break in Noosa.
Although England managing director Rob Key dismissed suggestions of a widespread “drinking culture” earlier this year, the ECB introduced a strict midnight curfew in March.
The rule that Stokes and Atkinson allegedly breached was part of those efforts to strengthen discipline within the squad.
Emergency concerns over possible retirement
According to reports, the fallout from the incident prompted serious concerns within the ECB.
Last Tuesday, senior officials reportedly held an emergency meeting after fears emerged that Stokes might announce his retirement through social media.
Those concerns have since eased, with Stokes’ return to county cricket suggesting he still has unfinished business in the game.
Nevertheless, reports indicate that any return to the England setup may require a careful reintegration process following the incident.
McCullum stresses culture remains important
While expressing sympathy for Stokes, McCullum also made clear that England cannot ignore breaches of team standards.
“When breaches happen, I think it's important you don't look past that,” he said. “Because to me, that can ruin a culture, that can ruin a side, if you're not prepared to be strong enough in those circumstances.”
The coach said supporting players and maintaining team standards are equally important responsibilities.
The incident has also placed fresh attention on McCullum’s working relationship with Stokes. The pair previously overcame differences that emerged after England’s recent 4-1 Ashes defeat and have worked closely together since taking charge of the Test team in 2022.
McCullum dismissed suggestions that the latest controversy has damaged their relationship.
“I don't think the relationship is strained at all,” he said. “Our lines of communication are very open.”
He emphasized that both men have always acted with the best interests of English cricket in mind. “Four years together is a long time in a really punchy, pressure-cooker environment,” McCullum said.
“But we've always had the best intentions of English cricket at the core of what we are trying to achieve and the decisions we're trying to make.”
Stokes’ past struggles and wellbeing concerns
McCullum’s concern for Stokes also reflects the England captain’s history.
Stokes was involved in a high-profile incident outside a Bristol nightclub in 2017, although he was later cleared of charges.
In 2021, he stepped away from cricket to prioritize his mental wellbeing.
“Whatever he is working through at the moment, it will be because Ben thinks that's right for dealing with what he's feeling at the moment,” McCullum said.
The England coach concluded by reiterating his support.
“Right now, I have a lot of respect, a lot of care for Ben, and I'm doing what I can to support him.”
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