Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleBen Stokes is set to return as England's captain for the upcoming third Test against New Zealand, following his absence from the second Test. Stokes was previously stood down from the second Rothesay Test due to a disciplinary investigation concerning a breach of team protocols in the early hours of June 8. During his temporary removal from the England squad, Stokes played for Durham in the Rothesay County Championship, where he scored a rapid 95. England head coach Brendon McCullum confirmed Stokes' reinstatement after England's significant 253-run defeat to New Zealand, expressing relief at seeing Stokes back in form and enjoying cricket. McCullum addressed speculation about a strained relationship with Stokes, affirming their strong working partnership and mutual respect, despite acknowledging 'robust conversations' and the need to uphold team standards. In fullBen Stokes set to return as England captain for third New Zealand TestThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

The 35-year-old is currently suspended but is expected to back with the team in time for the third Test

It is anticipated that the regulator will recommend a one-match ban - applied retrospectively - meaning that both Stokes and Atkinson would come into the reckoning for the series…

Stokes was left out of the second Test against New Zealand after a curfew breach

Stokes missed the second Test defeat pending the results of an disciplinary investigation