Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson faced an ECB inquiry after breaching the team's midnight curfew in a London nightclub, where a security staff member was struck by Saracens rugby player Totoa Avuaa. The investigation found the duo guilty of violating contractual obligations but cleared them of violent conduct. Both received written warnings and were reinstated for the deciding Test today.

ECB’s disciplinary hearing imposed no further sanctions beyond the warnings, allowing Stokes to resume captaincy for the Trent Bridge match. England’s squad for the third Test includes Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson, Ollie Robinson, Jamie Smith, and Joe Root, while seamer Jacob Bethell and bowler Shoaib Bashir also remain on the roster. The decision removes a cloud over the team’s leadership.

With the curfew breach cleared, England can focus on reclaiming the Ashes title after a 4-1 defeat. Stokes’ return is vital for a squad that lost the second Test after five changes. The ECB’s action signals a firm stance on conduct while preserving the team’s core talent for the final showdown.

The incident highlighted gaps in the new midnight curfew policy, with Atkinson admitting he was unaware of its enforcement following the first Test. ECB chief Rob Key said the board will eliminate ambiguity in future conduct rules. Fans expect the team to rally behind Stokes as England seeks to end a winter riddled with off‑field turbulence.