Saracens academy player Totoa Auvaa has been named as the rugby player involved in a nightclub clash with England cricketers Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson. The 21-year-old, who weighs over 19 stone, was reportedly at Chelsea's Rex Rooms nightclub with other Saracens players after an end-of-season social on Sunday.
Details of the Incident
England captain Stokes and fast bowler Atkinson were in the VIP area of the same nightclub into the early hours of Monday when a melee allegedly erupted between the trio and a member of the cricketers' security. According to reports in the Telegraph, it is unclear whether Stokes and Atkinson retaliated during the altercation.
The pair did, however, break the midnight curfew set by the England team, which had been implemented following a series of embarrassing incidents involving alcohol. A larger group of England cricketers and Saracens players had been at the same pub in London earlier on Sunday.
Context of the Evening
England were celebrating their first Test victory against New Zealand at Lord's, while Saracens were capping off a season after missing out on the Gallagher Premiership play-offs. Following the pub gathering, a handful of individuals from both teams moved on to the nightclub. No other cricketer beyond Stokes and Atkinson is believed to have broken the curfew.
England number eight Ben Earl and Samoa international Theo McFarland were also reportedly present at the nightclub but are believed not to have been involved in the incident.
Player Profile
Auvaa, who stands at 6ft 5in, has yet to play for Saracens' senior side. However, he has gained experience playing for Ampthill in the Championship and has captained Samoa Under-20s and Samoa A.
Official Statements
Saracens released a statement saying: "We are aware of an incident involving an academy player connected to Saracens on Sunday evening. The club is currently establishing the full facts and is in contact with the relevant authorities and individuals involved. Once this process is complete, the matter will be reviewed and addressed appropriately. We will make no further comment at this time."
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) also issued a statement: "The ECB is currently investigating a breach of team protocols following the conclusion of the first men's Test against New Zealand. Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning when an incident took place. We are currently seeking further information, and an announcement regarding the squad for the second Test will be made in due course. The Cricket Regulator has been informed and we will provide a further update when possible."
Potential Consequences
Neither Stokes nor Atkinson are expected to be named in England's squad for the second Test at the Oval next week while the investigation takes place. This means that Harry Brook, who was previously fined £30,000 and given an official reprimand for a nightclub incident, will lead the team.
