McCullum confused by stories of rift as Stokes returns
McCullum confused by stories of rift as Stokes returnsTo play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser.This video can not be playedFigure caption, Highlights: NZ level series after Henry blows away England on day fiveByStephan ShemiltCricket CorrespondentPublished5 minutes agoCommentsHead coach Brendon McCullum said he remains "good friends" with England captain Ben Stokes and the pair have "no idea" why rumours of a rift have emerged.The pair reunited on Tuesday for England's crucial deciding Test against New Zealand after Stokes missed the second following an incident in a London nightclub.Both McCullum and Stokes had previously denied their relationship was strained during the 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia, and McCullum has faced questions about their partnership during Stokes' absence.At Trent Bridge, two days before the third Test against New Zealand, McCullum revealed the pair spoke face-to-face on Tuesday morning."I said: 'Do you know where this has come from, the conversations around our relationship over the last six months?'" explained McCullum."He said: 'No, I have no idea.' I said to him: 'As far I'm concerned, I consider you a good friend.'"Stokes and pace bowler Gus Atkinson were made unavailable for England's heavy defeat in the second Test during an investigation into a breach of the team's midnight curfew following victory in the first Test at Lord's.They were present when a member of England security staff was struck by a Saracens rugby player.Both have been cleared to rejoin the England squad for the third Test, with Stokes returning as captain.Two days before the second Test at The Oval, McCullum gave a sombre media conference, when he repeatedly spoke of his "worry" and "concern" for Stokes.However, Durham's county head coach Ryan Campbell later said Stokes was in "good spirits" and the county...المصدر: BBC Sport | Source: BBC Sport
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