Ben Stokes likely to return as England captain for third Test against New Zealand

Ben Stokes could be back in charge of England's Test side as early as next week.

The all-rounder could resume his captaincy duties for the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, which gets underway on June 25.

Both Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson are currently being investigated after breaking England's midnight curfew during a night out at a London club.

It's understood the investigation is moving towards a resolution that would allow both players to return, according to the BBC.

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While nothing is set in stone just yet, there's a growing sense that Stokes will indeed lead the side in Nottingham.

The incident occurred while the pair were celebrating England's triumph in the first Test.

During the night out, they stayed beyond the team's curfew and were present when a security staff member was struck by a Saracens rugby player.

As a result, both Stokes and Atkinson have been ruled out of the ongoing second Test while the investigation continues.

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However, they're still free to turn out for their counties in domestic cricket.

Stokes is set to feature in Durham's County Championship clash against Northamptonshire on Friday, while Atkinson will be lining up for Surrey in their away fixture against Glamorgan.

The ECB confirmed on June 8 that the duo had breached the curfew and that an investigation was underway.

The ECB said in a statement last week: "The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first men's Test against New Zealand.

"Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place.

"We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test will be made in due course.

"The Cricket Regulator has been informed, and we will provide a further update when possible."

Both players have been interviewed this week as part of the ECB's inquiry, with officials keen to wrap things up quickly.

Neither director of cricket Rob Key nor head coach Brendon McCullum has publicly backed Stokes to continue as skipper, fuelling talk that his four-year reign could be over.

Joe Root has stepped in as captain for the second Test, saying he'll take things "game-by-game".

The ECB has denied asking Stokes to resign throughout this process.

A comeback at Trent Bridge would carry significance for Stokes, being the same ground where he played his first Test after being cleared of affray charges following a Bristol nightclub incident back in 2018.

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