Michael Vaughan has backed Ben Stokes to retain the England Test captaincy but expressed concerns over the all-rounder's recent behaviour following a nightclub incident that broke team rules.
Stokes' captaincy in doubt
Stokes, 35, faces an uncertain future after breaching a midnight curfew while celebrating England's Test victory over New Zealand at Lord's. The incident, which also involved teammate Gus Atkinson and Saracens rugby player Totoa Auvaa, has led to an ECB investigation and a referral to the independent Cricket Regulator. A decision on Stokes' leadership role could come before the second Test squad is named, with training set to begin at the Kia Oval on Sunday.
Speculation that Stokes might break his silence on social media on Tuesday, potentially stepping down as captain or from England duty, did not materialise. The ECB is eager for clarity before the Women's T20 World Cup opener at Edgbaston on Friday, where England host Sri Lanka.
Vaughan's perspective
Vaughan, who captained England in 51 Tests and led them to Ashes glory, wrote in The Telegraph that Stokes' mistake does not warrant dismissal. "Yes, Ben Stokes broke a curfew. Yes, he made a mistake. But is that a sacking offence as England's Test captain? I do not think so," Vaughan said. He argued that Stokes has built significant credit through his contributions as captain and all-rounder, and that the ECB lacks the same standing to remove him.
Vaughan added: "I do not see how you can tell Stokes he is not captain anymore just for going over the curfew by a couple of hours after a win. The ECB is hoping Stokes makes a decision on its behalf. But it has to be brave enough and strong enough to do what it thinks is right." He suggested a short suspension would be appropriate but not a permanent removal.
Concerns over Stokes' mindset
Despite backing Stokes, Vaughan revealed worries about his behaviour dating back to the Ashes tour. "He has not seemed right for a while. Over the past week, before this incident blew up, I sent a few messages to people around the England camp that I had concerns about Stokes," Vaughan wrote. He noted instances of aggression after interviews in Australia, a failure to shake hands with respected figures, and a refusal to join other ex-captains for a photo at the 150th Lord's Test celebrations. "He does not seem to respect the past or other people doing their jobs," Vaughan added.
Ongoing investigation
Stokes and Atkinson remain under investigation for the breach of team protocols. The confrontation involving Auvaa reportedly led to a physical altercation that struck an ECB security staff member. Saracens are also conducting their own probe to establish the full facts of the incident.
