Stokes is missing the current second Test at The Oval, alongside fast bowler Gus Atkinson, as the ECB investigates an alleged incident at a London nightclub.
With Joe Root leading the team in Stokes’ absence, Vaughan expressed that the ongoing uncertainty regarding the England skipper needs a swift resolution before the series progresses to the third Test.
When asked about reports suggesting Stokes could return as a player instead of as captain at Trent Bridge, Vaughan stated on Test Match Special: “If he steps down and resigns as captain, that could happen, but if he doesn’t resign, then England needs Ben Stokes as captain if he plays at Trent Bridge.
“They rely on his leadership and all-round skills; an all-rounder brings balance to the team.
“I’ve seen some claims that he could come back just as a player. Nonsense. If Ben Stokes plays at Trent Bridge, he must be the captain.”
Stokes and pace bowler Atkinson reportedly broke the team’s midnight curfew early Monday morning following the first Test win at Lord’s and were allegedly present when an incident occurred involving a member of England’s security staff and a Saracens rugby player.
The Cricket Regulator, which is independent from the ECB, is also conducting an investigation, according to the ECB.
With Stokes absent, New Zealand is in a commanding position after two days of the second Test, with England trailing by 169 runs and four first-innings wickets remaining.
The third Test at Trent Bridge begins on June 25.
“I’m perplexed as to why we’re still in this situation,” Vaughan remarked. “I want the ECB to publicly confirm that Ben Stokes is the captain; he’s accomplished a lot for the England side. It’s astonishing. If they are removing him, then they need to explain why.”
