Stokes and Atkinson withdrawn from county games

Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson have been withdrawn from their respective County Championship fixtures, strongly suggesting both will be available for England in the third Test against New Zealand. Stokes, who captains the England side, and pace bowler Atkinson had previously played together in the first Test at Lord's. Their withdrawal from county games is described as the clearest indication yet of their availability for the upcoming Test match.