The ECB is “exploring” a potential anti-corruption regulation violation by Brendon McCullum, the head coach of the Test team, in relation to his relationship with bookmaker 22Bet India.
McCullum’s contract with the Cyprus-based company was disclosed in November 2022, six months after he assumed his current position with the England men’s cricket team. However, advertisements on YouTube and social media posts from the 41-year-old have been scrutinized in recent weeks, particularly in New Zealand.
The ECB issued the following statement in response to McCullum’s relationship with Bet22 India: “We are currently investigating the matter and are in discussions with Brendon regarding his relationship with the Cypriot wagering company, 22Bet. We have wagering regulations in place and will always strive to ensure their observance.”
The ECB’s anti-corruption code prohibits “participants” from “directly or indirectly enticing, persuading, encouraging, or facilitating any other party to place a wager on the result, progress, conduct, or other aspect of any match or competition.”
Users in New Zealand cannot see ads that feature him or 22Bet India.
The Problem Gambling Foundation of New Zealand lodged an official complaint with the country’s Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) last week. In response, the DIA verified that 22Bet’s advertisements are deceptive because “they are neither a registered New Zealand sports bookmaker nor licensed or regulated by the DIA in New Zealand.”
Consequently, advertisements depicting McCullum and 22Bet India have been geoblocked for users in the region. The Problem Gambling Foundation reached out to the ECB as well.
In the advertisements, McCullum encourages IPL wagering. In a video posted to Facebook, he states, “The IPL is approaching, and I believe all cricket enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating this major event. My colleagues at 22Bet are prepared to enhance the excitement of your IPL experience. 22Bet India offers the highest odds.”
“We are discussing this matter with the ECB,” McCullum’s lawyer Simon Auteri told the Times. No comment. We progress.”
Since taking over as head coach, McCullum and captain Ben Stokes have led the Test team to ten victories in twelve matches, an improvement from their previous record of one victory in seventeen. McCullum is currently at home in New Zealand and will return to the United Kingdom the following month in preparation for England’s first summer Test against Ireland, which begins on June 1 at Lord’s.