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A major controversy has erupted amidst the news of England's star all-rounder Ben Stokes retiring from international cricket. The International Cricket Council (ICC) has raised strong objections to the release of a dressing-room video regarding Stokes's retirement while the third Test match against New Zealand was still in progress. The ICC has written an official letter to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) citing a violation of regulations.
What is the issue and why the uproar?
Ben Stokes's retirement was announced on the fourth day of the Trent Bridge Test, right in the middle of the match. Before play began that morning, Stokes had informed his teammates about the decision in the dressing room—a moment captured on camera by the ECB's media team.
The controversy arose when this emotional video—complete with audio—was released on social media and via broadcasters while the match was still ongoing (just before the tea break).
Violation of ICC's Anti-Corruption Rules (PMOA)
The ICC has clearly stated to the ECB that releasing such a video before the match concluded constitutes a direct violation of the minimum standards for the PMOA (Player and Match Officials' Area).
- What the rule says: Under the ICC's Anti-Corruption regulations, the recording and broadcasting of any audio or video from the team dressing room during a live international match is strictly prohibited.
- According to the rules, any content captured within the PMOA must not contain audio, nor can it be made public before the match ends.
Ben Stokes's dig at the ICC's action
Upon learning of the ICC's action regarding this matter, Ben Stokes took a dig at the governing body on social media.
On July 9 (Thursday), he posted a very brief and sharp tweet: "Sack him."Unique drama unfolds on the field
Interestingly, news of Stokes' retirement broke on social media while he was actually bowling on the field. On the very next delivery after the news flashed, he dismissed New Zealand batsman Jack Foulkes. Stokes' international career concluded on the fifth and final day of the Test match.
England now in search of a new captain
Following Stokes' sudden retirement, England is now looking for a new captain ahead of the three-match Test series against Pakistan next month. Vice-captain Harry Brook has already stated that taking on the captaincy would be an 'honor' for him, although the ECB does not wish to rush this decision. The next Test match between England and Pakistan is scheduled to be played at Headingley starting August 19.
