Ben Stokes Challenges ICC Over Slow Over-Rate Penalties

The England captain criticizes the lack of communication and fairness in over-rate regulations, citing inconsistencies across conditions and match styles.

Ben Stokes has refused to sign ICC over-rate penalty sheets since the 2023 Ashes, protesting the lack of response to his feedback on the issue.
England were docked three World Test Championship points and fined 15% of players' match fees after falling short of the required overs in the first Test against New Zealand.
Stokes argues that current rules unfairly penalize teams in seam-dominated conditions, contrasting them with spin-friendly environments in Asia where over-rate issues are rare.
The England captain has proposed solutions, including extending play to complete overs if lighting conditions permit, but says the ICC has yet to address his concerns.
Stokes' frustrations align with broader debates about the slowing pace of Test cricket, with some advocating for a 'stop clock' system similar to white-ball formats to enforce stricter time management.