England XI vs New Zealand for third Test confirmed: Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson among four changes made

England captain Ben Stokes and pacer Gus Atkinson (AP Photo/Tertius Pickard) NEW DELHI: England have made four changes to their playing XI for the series-clinching third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, with captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson returning to the side. Jamie Smith and Shoaib Bashir were also recalled, replacing James Rew, Jordan Cox, Matthew Fisher and Sonny Baker.The changes come after England’s disappointing 253-run defeat in the second Test at the Oval, where a much-altered line-up failed to chase down a target of 463. New Zealand’s victory leveled the series at 1-1 and set up a winner-take-all final.Stokes and Atkinson missed the second Test after violating the team’s midnight curfew following England’s victory in the opening Test. The pair were present during the incident, which involved an ECB security officer and a Saracens rugby player, prompting an investigation.However, disciplinary proceedings later cleared both players of any violent conduct. The ECB said Stokes was not involved in the altercation, while Atkinson was the victim of unprovoked attacks and did not retaliate. Both players received written warnings for violating team conduct rules.Ahead of the Trent Bridge Test, England coach Brendon McCullum dismissed speculation that his relationship with Stokes had soured following the controversy.“We talked about it this morning,” McCullum said. “I said, ‘You know where that came from, from the conversations surrounding our relationship over the last six months?’ He said ‘no, I have no idea as far as I’m concerned’.’McCullum emphasized that the two remain close and continue to work effectively together. “There (will be) times when we discuss things and discuss things. We’ve always ended up making decisions together … Ben and I are tight.”The manager also reminded the players of the responsibility that comes with representing England and said high standards on and off the pitch remain a key part of the team’s culture.