McCullum brushes off friction rumors as Stokes returns for third Test

Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson are back in the fold following a disciplinary suspension that sidelined them during the second Test at The Oval. The duo missed that match after a late-night incident at a London venue involving a member of the team’s security staff. In their absence, England suffered a heavy 253-run defeat, allowing New Zealand to level the series.

McCullum noted that he and Stokes shared a laugh over the rumors, which he characterized as unfounded gossip. Having led the Test side together since 2022, the pair remains focused on their long-term project to redefine English red-ball cricket. Despite recent setbacks, McCullum emphasized that their partnership remains as tight as ever, describing his four-year working relationship with the captain as a privilege. England now looks to capture its first series victory in 18 months when they face the Black Caps at Trent Bridge.