England Test captain Ben Stokes could be on his way to a comeback ahead of the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge despite an ongoing investigation into the night club row that forced him to miss the second Test.According to a British newspaper report The Guardianthere is growing hope within the England set-up that Stokes will return to the side once the ongoing questions come to an end. The players are also being investigated along with England team-mate Gus Atkinson after breaking a stay-at-home order and going to the lounge at night, in what is said to be an incident that left contact with security at the ECB requiring medical attention.The report said that the sentiment behind the move was “increased optimism” about Stokes’ future with the team. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is awaiting its findings from the independent Cricket Regulator, which is expected in the next few days. These results will play a major role in determining the next step.Meanwhile, England Test captain Ben Stokes is set to return to action after being included in Durham’s 15-man squad for their upcoming County Championship match against Northamptonshire in Chester-le-Street, which kicks off on Friday, June 19.Despite the ongoing questions, both players have now been cleared to participate in domestic cricket. Stokes is expected to represent Durham in the Championship game, while Atkinson is expected to return to Surrey for their game against Glamorgan in Cardiff.
Glenn’s century helped New Zealand post a commanding total
Summing up the second day of the second Test at the Oval, London unbeaten on 49, Phillips showed patience and ferocity to bring up his maiden Test hundred from 133. His impressive knock helped New Zealand post an innings total of 391. Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson provided valuable support with a gritty 41, while England spinner Jacob Bethell wrapped up the innings well, finishing with impressive figures of 3/26.
Will Ben Stokes play in the third Test against New Zealand?
In response, England struggled to keep up with the visitors. Opener Emilio Gay gave the nod with 53 runs, registering his second Test in a row in half a century. However, his dismissal completely changed New Zealand’s recovery.Seamer Matt Henry then produced the key words of the evening, with consecutive knocks to remove captain Joe Root for 46 and Harry Brook for 24 through tight selections. The double hit dashed England’s hopes of a coherent attack.Followers James Rew and Jordan Cox tried to strengthen the innings with a partnership of 39, but New Zealand struck again in the afternoon. Will O’Rourke dismissed Rew for 24 before batting, leaving Cox unbeaten on 22 and England in danger.At stumps on Day 2, England were 222/6, still trailing New Zealand by 169 runs, with the visitors firmly in control on day three.
