Ben Stokes Could Return for Third Test Amidst Ongoing Investigation

England Test captain Ben Stokes could be in line for a return ahead of the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge despite the ongoing investigation into the nightclub controversy that forced him to miss the second Test.

According to a report by British newspaper The Guardian, there is growing optimism within England's setup that Stokes will return to the side once the ongoing inquiries reach a conclusion.

The all-rounder is currently being investigated alongside fellow England pacer Gus Atkinson after allegedly breaching a team curfew and visiting a nightclub, where an incident reportedly occurred that left an ECB security liaison requiring medical attention.

The report stated that the mood behind the scenes is "more optimistic" regarding Stokes' future involvement with the team.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is awaiting preliminary findings from the independent Cricket Regulator, which are expected within the next few days. Those findings will play a key role in determining the next course of action.

Meanwhile, England Test captain Ben Stokes is set to return to competitive action after being included in Durham's 15-man squad for their upcoming County Championship clash against Northamptonshire at Chester-le-Street, which begins on Friday, June 19.

Despite the ongoing inquiries, both players have now been cleared to participate in domestic cricket.

Stokes is expected to represent Durham in the Championship fixture, while Atkinson is likely to return for Surrey in their match against Glamorgan in Cardiff.

Glenn's century helped New Zealand post a commanding total

Resuming the day 2 of second test at the Oval, London unbeaten on 49, Phillips showcased both patience and aggression to bring up his maiden Test hundred off 133 deliveries. His landmark knock helped New Zealand post a commanding first-innings total of 391.

Fast bowler Kyle Jamieson provided valuable support with a gritty 41, while England spinner Jacob Bethell wrapped up the innings efficiently, finishing with impressive figures of 3/26.

In response, England struggled to keep pace with the visitors. Opener Emilio Gay offered resistance with a composed 53, registering his second consecutive Test half-century. However, his dismissal shifted the momentum firmly back in New Zealand's favour.

Seamer Matt Henry then produced a crucial spell during the evening session, striking in successive overs to remove stand-in captain Joe Root for 46 and Harry Brook for 24 via tight lbw decisions. The double blow derailed England's hopes of mounting a meaningful counterattack.

Debutants James Rew and Jordan Cox attempted to steady the innings with a 39-run partnership, but New Zealand struck again late in the day. Will O'Rourke dismissed Rew for 24 shortly before stumps, leaving Cox unbeaten on 22 and England in a precarious position.

At stumps on Day 2, England were 222/6, still trailing New Zealand by 169 runs, with the visitors firmly in control heading into the third day.