ECB accused by ICC of breaching anti-corruption rules over Ben Stokes' retirement video

The ICC questioned ECB after the latter was allegedly being found in breach of anti-corruption rules during New Zealand's Test tour of England. The breach is said to be linked with Ben Stokes' retirement video.

Ben Stokes retires as one of England's greatest cricketers. Image: AFP

FirstCricket Staff|Jul 09, 2026, 13:48:26 IST

The International Cricket Council (ICC) alleged that the England Cricket Board (ECB) had breached the anti-corruption code after sharing Ben Stokes' retirement speech on social media.

Stokes announced his retirement on day four of the fourth Test match between England and New Zealand. The all-rounder's decision to retire midway through the series sparked a debate on whether he stepped down due to the nightclub incident involving him and Gus Atkinson.

ECB under ICC's radar over Stokes' retirement video

Stokes revealed the retirement decision to his teammates in the dressing room before the day four play started. The ECB also shared a video of the moment.

But as reported by the BBC, the ICC contacted the ECB, which alleged that sharing videos during play violated its rules for the players and match officials’ areas during international matches.

New Zealand defeat England 2-1 in Test series

Soon after Stokes announced his retirement, he delivered a standout performance by taking a wicket on the first ball.

While batting, the all-rounder put up 30 off 20 deliveries before he was dismissed.

Also Read | Ben Stokes pens heartfelt retirement note reflecting on his England career: 'My time was up...'

Yet, the Three Lions failed to close the Test series on a high after losing the third Test by 160 runs. The English side failed to put up a convincing performance in the second innings, handing New Zealand a 2-1 series victory at Trent Bridge.

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