Saracens player escapes punishment for involvement in Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson incident
Saracens player Totoa Auvaa has escaped formal sanction for his involvement in an incident which led to Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson being dropped from the England team.
Auvaa was allegedly involved in an altercation with Atkinson at a nightclub in Chelsea in the early hours of 8 June, and was reported to have aimed a punch at the England bowler that instead struck an ECB security guard, who required stitches.
Stokes and Atkinson were subsequently left out of England’s squad for the second Test at the Oval, though returned this week at Trent Bridge after the conclusion of an investigation by the Cricket Regulator which found “insufficient evidence” against the pair.
An ECB statement suggested that Atkinson had been the victim of what it described as “unprovoked attacks”, but Saracens have now suggested that the body concluded their enquiries without input from the Gallagher Prem club.
Confirming that the 21-year-old Auvaa, a former Samoa age-grade captain, will not face punishment, a statement said: “Whilst the events that occurred in the early hours of Monday 8 June 2026 are regrettable for all parties involved, the club remains supportive of the player concerned.
“Having thoroughly reviewed the matter, the club has concluded that no further action is required and now considers the matter closed. Saracens is satisfied that its independent review was conducted thoroughly and in accordance with the club’s internal procedures and standards.
“The ECB contacted the club as part of its review process. Saracens made clear that it wished to complete its own internal investigation before reaching any conclusions.
“The ECB subsequently concluded its process and issued its statement without any input from Saracens.”
Players from Saracens are understood to have been out celebrating on the Sunday night after the conclusion of the Prem season. Auvaa is yet to represent the club’s senior team.
Stokes and Atkinson returned to action in Nottingham on Thursday as New Zealand dominated a batting-friendly first day, finishing on 361/4.
