Ben Stokes: Josh Mlas says England missed out on missing captain in New Zealand’s second Test

Stokes’ lack of leadership and versatility was noted as England suffered a third Test defeat in a row at The Oval.

Chasing an impressive and world-record target of 463, the home side closed on 182-5 on Saturday, perhaps if not for captain Joe Root’s unbeaten 75 in four days.

With Stokes unable to balance the team, England were forced to opt for Jordan Cox as a specialist at number seven and left out spin Shoaib Bashir.

With Ollie Robinson missing the game through injury and Jamie Smith also on paternity leave, Root was put in charge of an England side that included three debutants and the fewest combined titles in 17 years.

“Yes, I missed you,” said Stokes’ tongue. “Obviously we have a lot of leaders on our team as well.

“Rooty coming in as captain is an incredible player and an incredible leader. It was great.”

Stokes and Atkinson broke England’s midnight wicket in the first Test at Lord’s against New Zealand.

The pair were found when a member of security staff was punched by a Saracens rugby player.

Both Stokes and Atkinson have been interviewed as part of the investigation and could be available for the third Test at Trent Bridge from Thursday, with Stokes likely to return as captain.