England name four changes to their playing XI for the third and final Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge, with the match beginning on Thursday. Following a heavy defeat at The Oval that levels the series 1-1, England recall Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson, who missed the second Test. Multiple reports link their absence to a team curfew breach, with the ongoing investigations into the incident reaching their conclusions. Sources also state that Stokes and Atkinson are cleared of violent conduct.
In addition to Stokes and Atkinson, England bring Jamie Smith back into the squad and include Shoaib Bashir among the four changes. One report notes that coach Brendon McCullum dismisses rumours of a rift involving Stokes. Another outlet mentions the context of an earlier incident involving Stokes and Atkinson at a Chelsea nightclub two weeks earlier.
Overall, the confirmed lineup changes reflect England’s response to the investigation outcome and their selection choices for the decisive Test at Trent Bridge.
