<!–
<!–
<!–
Brendon McCullum has expressed his frustration upon discovering that Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson violated the team curfew by visiting a Chelsea nightclub just a week ago. Despite several opportunities to comment on Stokes’s future as a potential captain for England, McCullum chose to remain silent on the issue.
The incident came to light on the same day England announced significant changes for the second Test against New Zealand at The Oval. Among the announcements were debut caps for batsman Jordan Cox and fast bowler Sonny Baker. Additionally, Surrey seamer Matt Fisher was recalled to the squad. Amid these developments, McCullum emphasized that his priority was ensuring Stokes’s well-being.
McCullum, however, stressed the importance of addressing breaches like this firmly. He stated, “When breaches happen, it’s crucial not to overlook them. Such incidents can damage the team culture and affect the side negatively if not handled with the necessary strength.”
Reflecting on the events, McCullum admitted to experiencing a mix of emotions upon learning that Stokes and Atkinson had visited The Rex Rooms in west London after the first-Test victory over New Zealand at Lord’s, despite the midnight curfew. This breach has raised concerns about maintaining discipline within the team.
Brendon McCullum (left) insists his main concern is making sure that Ben Stokes is OK
McCullum admitted to a range of emotions after he learned that Stokes and Atkinson had visited The Rex Rooms in west London after the midnight curfew following the first-Test win over New Zealand at Lord’s.
‘When I first found out about it, I was slightly bewildered,’ he said. ‘You go from being bewildered, on to angry, on to gutted. From the progress which we talked about over the last six months and what we’re trying to do with the side – to hear about this was incredibly gutting.’
England’s head coach played down managing director Rob Key’s suggestion last week of a total ban on alcohol, saying: ‘I do believe there is a place to never want to kill the joy. I think it is vitally important that you celebrate your successes. But I don’t believe in excess, and you need always to uphold the standards.’
Asked if he could see a way back for Stokes as captain, McCullum replied: ‘Those decisions are not for now. The concern is making sure Ben is fine. We need to make sure we look after him, rally around him, and in time we’ll get on to those sorts of decisions. For me, I’m just making sure I’m checking in with him.’
McCullum also denied his relations with Stokes had become strained. ‘I don’t think it’s strained at all,’ he said. ‘Our lines of communication are very open. Four years together is a long time in a really punchy pressure cooker. But we’ve always had the best intentions of English cricket at the core of what we are trying to achieve.
‘Right now, I have a lot of respect, a lot of care for Ben, and I’m doing what I can to support him.’