‘Ben Stokes will be captain’: Head coach Brendon McCullum delivers sweeping news after England’s 253-run defeat by New Zealand

England captain Ben Stokes with coach Brendon McCullum (Photo by Gareth Copley/Getty Images) NEW DELHI: England captain Ben Stokes is all set to return for the third Test against New Zealand in Nottingham after missing the second match which ended in England’s crushing 253-run defeat at The Oval. Head coach Brendon McCullum has confirmed that Stokes will continue as captain despite an ongoing disciplinary investigation into a breach of team rules earlier this month.Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were left out of the second Test after breaching the team curfew following England’s win in the series opener. During his time away from the national team, Stokes headed to Durham and impressed with a quickfire 95 against Northamptonshire. Both he and Atkinson were later withdrawn from their respective county games, prompting speculation of a comeback.Confirming the captain’s return, McCullum said: “Ben will come back. He will come back and be the captain.”“I think everyone is excited about it, especially after seeing him get into some form for Durham.“I’ve spoken to Ben every day since we had the incident and my assessment was that I was worried for him. To see him go out there and play cricket and look like he’s enjoying it is really positive.”“I won’t divulge our conversations because they are confidential, but it’s great to see him play and I’m looking forward to seeing him in a few days.”

Questions about the relationship were dismissed

Recent reports suggested that there was tension between McCullum and Stokes following England’s Ashes defeat and a disciplinary issue. However, the coach insisted that their relationship remained strong.“For four years we have worked together intimately, achieved great things and disappointed in other things.“We’re having robust conversations all the way through and that’s to be expected when you’re in leadership positions. There’s mutual respect.”McCullum also emphasized that mistakes cannot be ignored, saying: “It’s really important to separate the actions from the person… You sort it out and try to move on.”Stokes’ return could provide England with a timely boost as they look to bounce back in the series decider.