What’s the issue?

In the 3rd Test at Lord’s, England won the match but were penalized 2 World Test Championship (WTC) points due to slow over rate. That significantly impacts their WTC standing.

What did Ben Stokes say?

Stokes questioned how over rate penalties are applied universally, even though playing conditions vary around the world. His points include:

• In Asian conditions, 70% of overs are bowled by spinners, who take less time per over.

• In England, Australia, New Zealand, 70–80% of overs are bowled by pacers, who naturally take longer due to longer run-ups, ball changes, field adjustments, etc.

• Hence, he suggests using common sense and adjusting over rate rules based on conditions.

He also implied:

• The high scoring rate in modern Tests (more boundaries) increases the time spent retrieving balls, which affects over rates.

• He doesn’t intentionally slow the game, but doesn’t agree with blanket rules.

Is England cheating?

No, this is not cheating. The ICC rule on over rates is well-known, and every team is expected to follow it. England was penalized as per the rulebook, just like any other team would be. Stokes is merely criticizing the logic behind the rule, not denying the outcome.

Context in WTC:

In the WTC, every point matters. A few over-rate penalties can hurt a team's chances of reaching the final, as Australia and England have learned before. So, while England won the match, they lost crucial WTC points, and Stokes is challenging the fairness of that.

Final Word:

• This is not cheating, but a debate on rule fairness.

• The ICC might need to revisit the one-size-fits-all over rate rule, especially in light of the evolving nature of Test cricket.