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Ben Stokes, captain of England, faces an unclear future after finding himself involved in an ECB probe concerning an incident that occurred in a nightclub after England defeated New Zealand at Lord's.

 

Both Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson face an investigation into the potential violation of team rules after a disturbance in a Chelsea club and there are concerns that the outcome of the investigation could threaten both Stokes' captaincy and potentially his place in the England team for the second Test.

 

Should England have to find a new captain the head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key could have quite a few options to consider.

 

Top 3 Contenders for England Test Captaincy if Ben Stokes is Sacked

 

Harry Brook

 

Harry Brook looks to be the most natural fit.

 

The Yorkshire batter is currently England's Test vice-captain, and during the McCullum-Stokes era, he has cemented himself as one of England's key figures. Brook has also experienced international leadership, skippering the ODI side for England in two matches.

 

His appointment would not necessarily be plain sailing however, as Brook was himself involved in controversy at a nightclub tour during England's 2025 tour to New Zealand. He remained in leadership position after he was subject to disciplinary measures by the ECB, and if the reason for the removal of Stokes' captaincy is for similar issues that Brook found himself involved in, he may not be a viable option.

 

Also Read | What Happened in the Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson Nightclub Incident?

 

Joe Root

 

Another name being discussed is that of former captain, Joe Root.

 

The former England captain amassed 64 caps for England as leader of the test side, and is still one of the world's most established batters. England's most consistent player is currently one of the world's leading test batsmen.

 

The leadership qualities and immense experience that Root has, make him a strong option during uncertain times, however, adding yet another responsibility to Root's shoulders at a time when his batting career is at its most prolific, is likely to be too much for England to ask.

 

Jacob Bethell

 

It is no surprise that Jacob Bethell has rapidly established himself as one of England's brightest young prospects.

 

The young lad of 22 has lead England in ODI cricket and was the youngest to do so. Whenever England finds themselves in trouble, Bethel has done a rescue job and his leadership qualities are also admired by the selectors and the coach.

 

Bethell has recently enhanced his position in the England team by scoring a match-winning century in the Ashes series down under. He is seen by many in the English game as a potential future captain and with his meteoric rise has firmly found himself in the limelight.

 

Also Read | Full List of England Captains Penalized by ECB for Off-Field Controversies

 

What Happens Next?

 

England are currently waiting for the ECB to investigate Stokes and Atkinson's nightclub episode.

 

There has been no indication from the board that Stokes will face any charges and for now he remains the Test captain of England, but in the run up to a resolution being reached, questions are being asked about who will replace him.

 

Whatever route England go down, whether it's to pick us up with experience through Root, maintain momentum with Brook, or Plant the seeds for a long-term future with Bethell, the few days ahead could be crucial for the team's future.