Stokes shines in county cricket as England struggles against NZ

Ben Stokes has scored 95 for his county side Durham after being left out of England's squad for the second Test against New Zealand. Stokes is the subject of an ECB investigation into a nightclub incident following England's win in the first Test. England is headed towards defeat against New Zealand in the second Test. England's slide towards likely defeat to New Zealand in the second Test has taken place on the same day absent captain Ben Stokes scored 95 for his county side Durham. He joined his Durham teammates in a four-day County Championship Division Two match against Northamptonshire in Chester-le-Street. The all-rounder has been missed by England at The Oval, where the hosts ended day four on 5-182, chasing a mammoth victory target of 463. No decision has been announced as to whether Stokes will return as captain or just a member of the team for the third Test at Trent Bridge next week. [Image text:] Red Aztec COLOUR PRINT