England Test captain Ben Stokes could be in line to return ahead of the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge despite an ongoing investigation into the nightclub controversy which forced him to miss the second Test.According to a British newspaper report The Guardianthere is growing optimism within the England set-up that Stokes will return to the side once the ongoing investigations reach a conclusion. The all-rounder is currently under investigation along with fellow England pacer Gus Atkinson after he allegedly breached the team’s curfew and visited a nightclub, where an incident reportedly took place that left an ECB security liaison requiring medical attention.The report said the mood behind the scenes was “more optimistic” about Stokes’ future involvement with the team. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is awaiting the preliminary findings of the independent cricket regulator, which are expected in the next few days. These findings will play a key role in determining the next course of action. Meanwhile, England Test captain Ben Stokes is set to return to competitive action after being included in Durham’s 15-man squad for their upcoming County Championship clash against Northamptonshire at Chester-le-Street, starting on Friday 19 June. Despite ongoing investigations, both players are now cleared to participate in domestic cricket. Stokes is expected to represent Durham in the Championship game, while Atkinson is likely to return for Surrey against Glamorgan in Cardiff.
Glenn’s century helped New Zealand post a commanding total
Continuing the second day of the second Test at the Oval in London unbeaten on 49, Phillips showed both patience and aggression to bring up his maiden Test hundred off 133 deliveries. His landmark knock helped New Zealand to a stunning first innings total of 391. Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson provided valuable support with a sharp 41, while England all-rounder Jacob Bethell closed the innings effectively, finishing with impressive figures of 3/26.In reply, England struggled to keep pace with the visitors. Opener Emilio Gay fought back with a calm 53, registering his second successive Test half-century. However, his dismissal swung the momentum firmly back in New Zealand’s favour.Seamer Matt Henry then produced a crucial spell during the evening session, batting in successive overs to remove stand-in captain Joe Root for 46 and Harry Brook for 24 via narrow lbw decisions. The double blow derailed England’s hopes of mounting a meaningful counter-attack.Debutants James Rew and Jordan Cox tried to shore up the innings with a partnership of 39, but New Zealand struck again late in the day. Will O’Rourke dismissed Rew for 24 shortly before the fall, leaving Cox unbeaten on 22 and England in a precarious position.At stumps on day two, England were 222/6, still trailing New Zealand by 169 runs, with the visitors firmly in control heading into day three.
