Stokes out of England squad, Root named captain

Ben Stokes has been removed from the England cricket squad for the second Test against New Zealand following a nightclub incident. Joe Root has been named interim captain as the ECB continues its investigation.
Why it matters
The loss of a key player and captain impacts team performance and raises questions about professional conduct and discipline in international sports.
Image source, Getty Images By Stephan Shemilt Cricket Correspondent Published 10 June 2026, 15:03 BST Updated 4 minutes ago Ben Stokes will miss England s second Test against New Zealand at The Oval following an incident in a London nightclub, with Joe Root stepping up as interim captain.
The report focuses on factual developments regarding the squad selection and the ongoing investigation.
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