England captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson could face disciplinary action and risk missing the second Test against New Zealand after allegedly breaching team protocols following England’s win at Lord’s.The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed on Monday that the pair were present at a nightclub in the early hours after the match and that an incident took place.“Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place,” the ECB statement said.“We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second test will be made in due course.”According to reports, Stokes and Atkinson breached England’s midnight curfew and were at Rex Rooms nightclub in Chelsea when an altercation occurred involving a Saracens rugby player.Saracens players were celebrating their end-of-season party at the venue after a social event in Fulham on Sunday. Stokes and Atkinson were also present in the VIP area of the nightclub after England’s first Test victory over New Zealand.The curfew had been reintroduced by England in January following the Ashes tour of Australia, during which the team faced criticism over drinking and professionalism.A report in The Telegraph said the incident involved Saracens player Totoa Auvaa, a member of the club’s academy setup. The report stated that Auvaa attempted to punch Atkinson but missed and instead hit a member of the cricketers’ security team.According to the report, the security staff member required stitches after the incident. It remains unclear whether Stokes or Atkinson retaliated.The ECB said it is gathering more information before making a decision regarding the squad for the second Test.
Who is Totoa Auvaa?
According to The Telegraph, Totoa Auvaa is a 21-year-old rugby player in the Saracens academy system.The report said Auvaa stands 6ft 5in tall and weighs 125kg. Although he is yet to play for Saracens’ senior team, he made 17 appearances for Ampthill in England’s second tier last season.Auvaa has captained both Samoa Under-20s and Samoa A and is regarded as one of Saracens’ leading prospects. However, The Telegraph reported that his future at the club is now uncertain following the nightclub incident.
