Why Ben Stokes is gaining support not to quit after nightclub controversy: 'The villain was the rugby player'

England Test captain Ben Stokes is receiving growing support not to quit cricket or step down as captain despite being at the centre of an ECB investigation following a nightclub incident in London.

Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson are currently being investigated by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) for an alleged breach of team protocol. The pair were present at a nightclub in the early hours of Monday morning after England's victory over New Zealand at Lord's when an altercation reportedly took place.

Even though reports claim that neither Stokes nor Atkinson was responsible for starting the incident, the investigation has sparked speculation about Stokes' future. Reports suggest that he could step down as England captain and may even consider retiring from international cricket as the ECB prepares to fine him for breaking team curfew.

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Stokes receives support

However, several prominent voices in English cricket and beyond have urged the all-rounder not to make any rash decisions. Former England all-rounder Ravi Bopara believes it would be unfair to judge Stokes before all the facts are known.

"I think it's important that the right process is taken and we don't jump to any conclusions, because that wouldn't be fair on Ben [Stokes] or English cricket. Ben's a huge figure for English cricket and with that comes huge responsibility, like any top-level sport or any elite player. Let's just hope the correct process is taken and then everything comes to a conclusion," Bopara said on Sky Cricket.

Former England captain Mike Atherton also suggested that breaking a curfew alone should not lead to resignation or sacking. Writing in his column for Times Sport, Atherton said that the bigger issue could be how the situation affects Stokes mental state and not the incident itself.

"Taken in isolation, breaking a curfew is neither a resigning nor a sacking offence. Yet the most important consideration of all for Stokes will be his own mental state," Atherton wrote.

Meanwhile, popular English broadcaster Piers Morgan said that it would be ridiculous if Stokes were made to resign for something he didn't even do.

The ECB has confirmed that both Stokes and Atkinson are being investigated and that further information is being gathered. The matter has also been referred to the Cricket Regulator, which has the power to impose sanctions if required.