The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has absolved England men’s red-ball head coach Brendon McCullum of any wrongdoing regarding his association with bookmaker 22Bet India. Following his appearances in YouTube advertisements and social media posts encouraging wagering on the IPL, Brendon McCullum came under scrutiny.
The former New Zealand captain’s contract with the Cyprus-based company was disclosed in November 2022, just six months into his tenure as England’s head coach. However, advertisements have recently been scrutinized, particularly in New Zealand.
“The IPL is approaching, and I believe all cricket enthusiasts are looking forward to this major event. My colleagues at 22Bet are prepared to enhance the excitement of your IPL experience. “22Bet India guarantees the best odds,” McCullum was seen promoting betting in a Facebook advertisement.
The Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand lodged an official complaint with the country’s Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) regarding the deceptive advertisements. The DIA verified that 22Bet’s advertisements are misleading because ‘they are not a registered New Zealand sports bookmaker, nor are they licensed or regulated in New Zealand by the DIA’.
“Discussions with Brendon McCullum have been ongoing for the past few days, and the issue has been analyzed from the employer’s and regulator’s perspectives. We can affirm that no further action will be taken,” confirmed the ECB, as reported by ESPN cricinfo.
In May 2022, Brendon McCullum was appointed as the head coach. Under McCullum’s stewardship, along with captain Ben Stokes, the Three Lions have won ten of their twelve Test matches and produced some scintillating cricket.
The head coach, who is currently in New Zealand, has not yet returned to the United Kingdom and is expected to return prior to the one-off Test against Ireland. Beginning on June 1, England will play their first Test of the summer against Ireland at Lord’s. After the conclusion of the game, England will prepare for the eagerly awaited Ashes series.
India
