Stokes and Atkinson are likely to miss the remainder of the NZ Tests, while Stokes' captaincy hangs by a thread.
On Sunday night, a sizable gathering of England Test players celebrated their victory over New Zealand in the first Test at Lord's at the White Horse bar in Parsons Green, southwest London. There were also a few English rugby internationals.
But a few hours later, there was a fight at Rex Rooms, known as "Chelsea's naughtiest nightclub," which is open until three in the morning. The incident also allegedly involved 21-year-old rugby player Totoa Auvaa, who is contracted to the Saracens.
He is reported to have thrown a punch at Gus Atkinson, but missed and hit an ECB security staff member. Both Stokes and Atkinson are believed to have escaped unhurt. The Daily Mail report claimed that neither Stokes nor Atkinson instigated the confrontation.
Stokes reportedly showed up at the pub at around nine o'clock at night, and one employee said he already looked "tipsy." According to reports, he spent most of the evening at the bar, placing "enormous" rounds that cost up to £25 each and featured "plenty" of double rum and Cokes. It is believed that Stokes departed the location at approximately 11 p.m.
Stokes and Atkinson chatted with England rugby captain Maro Itoje and discussed their upcoming tour to Australia, before the latter moved to Rex Rooms.
Stokes and Atkinson are anticipated to miss the second Test match against New Zealand at The Oval, regardless of the outcome of the ECB investigation, and they may be punished for the rest of the series.
According to an ESPNcricinfo story, Stokes has been offered the chance to continue his international career while resigning as Test captain by the ECB. The board is allegedly ready to fire him for violating team procedures if he refuses to step down.