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Phil Salt Cleared by ECB Anti-Corruption Unit Over Bat Size Controversy
Lancashire and England Opener Found Not in Breach of ECB Code After Detailed Investigation
Phil Salt, the aggressive top-order batter for Lancashire and England, has been officially cleared of any wrongdoing by the England and Wales Cricket Board’s (ECB) Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) after his bat failed an on-field gauge test during a Vitality Blast 2025 fixture. Allegations regarding a potential breach of ECB Directives 3.2 and 3.3 have now been dismissed following a thorough investigation.
The bat in question, used frequently by Salt over the past two years across formats — including for England, Lancashire Lightning, and during the IPL — had reportedly never faced scrutiny before this incident.
The On-Field Incident: What Triggered the Controversy?
Umpires Flag Bat During Vitality Blast Match vs Northamptonshire
The controversy began during Lancashire Lightning’s clash against the Northamptonshire Steelbacks, when Salt’s bat underwent a routine on-field gauge test during the first over of Lancashire’s innings. These tests, part of the ECB’s bat size compliance process, check whether the bat fits through a specially designed gauge that complies with regulation limits.
On this occasion, Salt’s bat failed to pass through the gauge, prompting umpires to deem it non-compliant on the field. However, further testing post-match produced inconclusive results — at times, the bat did pass through the gauge — sparking debate about the testing methods and equipment accuracy.
Related: Previous bat size incidents and ECB rules for equipment compliance
Official Clearance from ECB’s ACU After Further Testing
Following the confusion, the bat was handed over to the Cricket Regulator’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) for more comprehensive testing. After a series of evaluations, the ACU concluded that the bat was fully compliant with ECB regulations, clearing Salt of any breach under the ECB’s Anti-Corruption Code.
In a public statement, Lancashire County Cricket Club (LCCC) confirmed the outcome and criticized the initial process:
“We believe this entire process could have been avoided with improved procedures, whether through better testing equipment or more detailed training for match officials,” LCCC said.
The club also expressed concerns over the unwarranted media coverage, commentator remarks, and social media abuse directed at the player, despite the absence of conclusive evidence at the time.
Salt’s Record and Use of the Bat
A Trusted Piece of Equipment Across Formats
Phil Salt’s defense largely centered around the longstanding use of the same bat, which he had wielded successfully over multiple seasons. Used during his international duties for England, domestic matches with Lancashire, and franchises in leagues like the IPL, the bat had never previously failed a compliance check.
This incident has raised broader questions around equipment testing standards, especially during high-pressure T20 competitions like the Vitality Blast.
More on ECB bat regulations and player equipment standards – ECB Official Site
Lancashire’s Criticism and Call for Change
Lancashire has called for a review of on-field testing protocols, citing the avoidable confusion and reputational damage to both the club and the player. Their concerns have reignited debate in the cricketing community over the transparency and effectiveness of bat-gauge tests.
The club emphasized the importance of clearer guidelines, better calibration tools, and more consistent umpiring standards across venues to prevent similar controversies in the future.
With the bat now cleared and no further action required, Phil Salt can focus on cricketing duties without the cloud of controversy. The episode serves as a reminder for cricketing authorities to streamline their testing procedures and communication protocols, ensuring both fairness and player protection in high-stakes matches.
This incident has sparked important dialogue on equipment regulation enforcement and the mental impact of public speculation on players. Going forward, the ECB is expected to address concerns raised by Lancashire and implement measures that enhance the clarity and consistency of its compliance protocols.
