'Sack him' - Ben Stokes at centre of more ECB drama after ICC launch 'corruption' investigation

Ben Stokes hasn't been able to escape controversy even after calling time on his international career.

Stokes informed his England teammates of his retirement before the start of play on the fourth day of the third Test against New Zealand.

The cricket star addressed the squad at Trent Bridge: "This is my last two days as your captain and my last two days representing England. Reasons can wait... but I've had many trips to the well before for this team, for you blokes, the people before, and I've got one more trip to do."

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) announced the news later on the same day and made public the video of the skipper's speech to the team.

Now, it's being reported that the very existence of the video has invited the unwanted attentions of the International Cricket Council (ICC).

ICC provisions prohibit the use of 'fixed or temporary video cameras or other recording equipment' in dressing rooms with the intention of publishing the video or audio.

"In a letter sent on Saturday, the ICC states the ECB has breached the provision by recording and broadcasting the footage and audio of Stokes' address before the Test concluded," reports BBC Sport.

"The global governing body had also previously informed the ECB any footage shot in the [players' and match officials' areas] must not carry audio or be released before the conclusion of a match."

New Zealand clinched a series win with a 160-run victory over England in the third Test and brought Stokes' international career to a close.

It was England's first home series defeat over three or more Test matches since 2012.

Stokes himself responded on social media, making light of the allegation and mocking critics who called for his head during his time as captain.

"Sack him..." posted Stokes on X, formerly Twitter.

England captain Stokes retired in the shadow of controversy

Stokes is no stranger to the spotlight. He was cleared off affray in 2018 after an incident outside a nightclub in Bristol in 2018 but was charged by the ECB after his criminal trial.

The skipper was also dropped from the squad for this year's second Test against New Zealand.

Stokes and pace bowler Gus Atkinson were sanctioned for breaking a team curfew and becoming involved in a confrontation with Saracens player Totoa Auvaa.

Former captain Joe Root stood in for Stokes at the Oval but vice-captain Harry Brook is expected to be appointed as the 35-year-old's permanent successor.