The axe has fallen on Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson - two of England's most prized assets - who have been withdrawn from their respective County Championship matches ahead of a crunch showdown with New Zealand at Trent Bridge. The sudden decision, announced just 48 hours before the third Test gets underway, is the clearest sign yet that both players are set to make an immediate return to the national side.
Stokes, Durham's talisman, had been showing all the hallmarks of a top-class batsman with his scintillating 95 against Northamptonshire on Saturday. The England skipper was in supreme form, leaving many to wonder how long it would be before he notched up another century - and this time, at international level.
Atkinson, Surrey's quicksilver bowler, has been making waves with his impressive four-wicket haul against Glamorgan. His removal from county duty signals that England will soon welcome a fresh face into their attack, one who could potentially wreak havoc on New Zealand's batting line-up.
The withdrawals come hot on the heels of an internal investigation into an incident at a London nightclub after England's victory at Lord's. Although Stokes and Atkinson were initially made unavailable for the second Test, this latest development suggests that their selection for the third is now all but certain.
With Ollie Robinson ruled out through injury and Jamie Smith taking paternity leave, England have already made five changes to their team - including three debutants - which has struggled to cope with New Zealand's might. Pace bowler Josh Tongue summed it up perfectly: "Stokesy is an unbelievable player. I've got huge respect for him."
While the outcome of the investigation and England's full squad for the third Test remain under wraps until Sunday, Stokes' and Atkinson's withdrawal from county duty provides a clear indication that they're ready to roll into action once again.