The International Cricket Committee’s code of conduct, specifically Clause 2.12, clearly states that “any form of inappropriate physical contact is prohibited in cricket.”

Yet, the actions of Ben Stokes, who placed his arm around Marnus Labuschagne during yesterday’s match, have sparked a debate over whether this constitutes a breach of the rules.

Australian cricket star Alyssa Healy has expressed that the England captain may need to face scrutiny for his actions.

“He might have a little trip to the match referee,” Healy remarked during her commentary for Fox Sports.

“This is what we expect in an Ashes series … a bit of spice and heat and frustration at times,” she added, reflecting on the intense nature of the rivalry.

Despite the controversy, there are instances that suggest Stokes might not face any repercussions.

Last summer, Virat Kohli was found guilty of breaking the clause when he barged into Sam Konstas during the Boxing Day Test, and was fined 20 per cent of his match fee.

What Stokes did pales in comparison to that incident.

However, it is pretty similar to Indian star Akash Deep putting his arm around Ben Duckett and having a few words when he took his wicket in August.

The match referees had no issues with that one.