IPL betting ads featuring Brendon McCullum geoblocked in New Zealand, ECB 'exploring' head coach's relationship with 22Bet India

IPL betting advertisements featuring Brendon McCullum - the head coach of England Test team have been geoblocked in New Zealand after a complaint from country's Problem Gambling Foundation to the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA). In response the DIA confirmed that the adverts for 22Bet India are misleading.

The department further stated that "they are not a registered New Zealand sports bookmaker, nor are they licensed or regulated in New Zealand by the DIA". The Problem Gambling Foundation also contacted the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) who are now "exploring" McCullum's relationship with the online betting platform.

"We are currently exploring the matter, and [are] in discussions with Brendon around his relationship with the Cypriot-based betting company, 22Bet. We have rules in place around gambling, and will always seek to ensure these are followed," ECB has said in their official statement.

The former New Zealand captain's deal with the Cyprus-registered company was announced in November 2022 - six months after he was appointed as the head coach of England Test team. Off late, the frequent advertisements on YouTube and posts from the social media handles of the 41-year-old's have come under scrutiny, particularly in New Zealand.

According to the ECB's anti-corruption code states "participants" are prohibited from "directly or indirectly enticing, persuading, encouraging or facilitating any other party to enter into a bet in relation to the result, progress, conduct or any other aspect of any match or competition".

"The IPL is coming, and I think all cricket fans are excited for this big event. My friends at 22Bet are ready to make your IPL experience even more fascinating. 22Bet India guarantees the best odds," McCullum has said in a video posted on Facebook. "Bet 2 play, Bet 2 win," he has captioned one of his videos.

The 41-year-old has been part of the IPL in the past as a player and as a coach.

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Story first published: Friday, April 14, 2023, 13:44 [IST]

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