ECB unsure of Stokes' future, Rob Key reveals reasons behind Root’s appointment as captain ahead of Brook

England’s director of cricket Rob Key has refused to guarantee Ben Stokes’ future as the Test captain as the fallout from the latest off-field controversy involving the national side continues to deepen. The all-rounder and fast bowler Gus Atkinson have already been ruled out of the second Test against New Zealand, scheduled to begin on 17 June.