A dressing room video of former England skipper Ben Stokes’ farewell address to the England dressing room during last month’s third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge has attracted the eyes of International Cricket Council (ICC) following a potential breach of its Player and Match officials’ Area (PMOA) regulations. The ICC has also written to the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) regarding this.
Before the start of the play on the fourth day of the New Zealand Test at Trent Bridge, Stokes informed his teammates of his decision in the dressing room, with that address filmed by ECB’s media team. The footage having the clear audio was released on social media and also to broadcasters after the match started.
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ICC says dressing room footage with audio violated Article 2.2.11
ICC has stated to the ECB that this incident has officially breached the PMOA regulation (Article 2.2.11) of the ICC. Article 2.2.11 does not allow any recording and broadcasting of any kinds of audio and video from dressing rooms of any teams, especially during an ongoing international fixture. PMOA regulations also refrain from usage of any temporary or permanent equipments inside the dressing room.
Although, ECB is yet to make any comment on this matter to the ICC.
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Stokes defends retirement announcement, posts ‘Sack him’ on X sarcastically.
Explaining the timing of the release after the fourth day of play, Stokes stated that the rollout was coordinated between his representatives and the ECB. “I just said, ‘You guys work with Michael Lumb and Neil Fairbrother, who work with me, and you guys just come up with a plan’,” said the versatile player.
Replying to the news, Stokes posted a link on his X handle’s story, with the caption “Sack him”.
Following Stokes’ retirement, England is seeking for a new Test skipper in time for the three-match series against Pakistan in August.
Following Stokes’ retirement, England is seeking for a new Test skipper in time for the three-match series against Pakistan in August.
