Stokes' position as England Test captain is hanging by a thread following the nightclub incident.
Ben Stokes is all set to meet with his advisors to determine his England future, weighing options between stepping down as Test captain, taking an indefinite break, or retiring from international cricket altogether, ESPNCricinfo reported.
The turmoil stems from an ongoing investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) into a nightclub incident in London following the first Test against New Zealand at Lord’s.
Stokes and his teammate Gus Atkinson breached the team curfew and were involved in a fracas with rugby player Totoa Auvaa, which left an England security officer needing stitches.
The situation has created significant pressure, as the team management was attempting to fix cultural issues from past indiscretions.
According to the report, the ECB held an emergency meeting on Tuesday morning. Discussions centered on reports that the situation might push Stokes to end his 15-year career immediately. Trust has eroded to the point that executives fear the ace all-rounder will announce his retirement via social.
The report also suggested that the board is keen to give Stokes space to make his own decision rather than risking an ultimatum that could trigger his exit.
While retirement is a live concern, there is optimism that Stokes may cool on that option. He will meet with his long-time agent, Neil Fairbrother, the former England and Lancashire batter, to decide the course of action.
The 35-year-old could also opt to step down from the captaincy while fulfilling the remainder of his central contract, which runs through 2027. He might also opt to quit captaincy and take an indefinite break from the game.
Both Stokes and Atkinson are facing expected suspensions and fines from the ECB and Cricket Regulator, which could rule them out for the rest of the New Zealand series.
The second Test between England and New Zealand is slated to begin at The Oval on June 17, and the ECB is expected to announce the squad before Friday regardless of Stokes' decisions.
(With ESPNCricinfo Inputs)