said it was “exploring the matter” and would make sure its “rules in place around gambling are followed”. But after discussions with McCullum and his agent, the governing body concluded that its anti-corruption code did not preclude players and coaches from appearing in adverts or becoming brand ambassadors for bookmakers.
An ECB spokesperson said: “Discussions have been ongoing with Brendon over the last few days, and the matter has been considered from an employer and regulator perspective. We can confirm that no further action will be taken.” Meanwhile, Gary Ballance has announced his retirement, just three months after the former England batter resumed his international career with Zimbabwe. Ballance, 33, played 16 Tests and 23 ODIs for England but last featured in 2017 as he battled loss of form, struggles with mental health and damaging accusations in the Yorkshire racism scandal.
He left Headingley last year and signed a two-year deal with his native country, but his return to top-flight cricket was a brief one and he has now walked away with immediate effect.has described speculation that he has designs on England’s wicketkeeping position after his return from injury as a “non-story”.
The Yorkshire coach, Darren Gough, said last month that the 33-year-old had “said he would like to keep” when he returns to his county side, prompting some to suggest that, with his place at No 5 jeopardised by the emergence of Harry Brook, he had his sights on Ben Foakes’s position in the Test team.