Cricket bosses are investigating a video appearing to show Ben Duckett drunk and slurring his words during the Ashes tour.
The England player is seen speaking to a group who ask him if he knows how to get home, to which he replies: “No.”
It has not been established exactly when and where it was filmed, but one of the people in the video says “we’re losing two-nil” – suggesting it was in between the second and third Tests.
England have been widely criticised for their preparation and performances in Australia after losing the series in just 11 days after three straight defeats.
The team were allowed to go on a pre-planned break in the town of Noosa before the third Test.
However, members of the squad were reported to be taking part in regular prolonged drinking sessions in the town during their time off.
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The video of Duckett, 31, has been widely shared on X and the England and Wales Cricket Board said it was “establishing the facts”.
In response, an ECB spokesperson told Sky Sports News: “We are aware of content circulating on social media.
“We have high expectations for behaviour, accepting that players are often under intense levels of scrutiny, with established processes that we follow when conduct falls below expectations. We also support players that need assistance.
“We will not comment further at this stage while we establish the facts.”
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England managing director Rob Key had earlier said excessive alcohol consumption was not “something that I’d expect to see at any stage” and promised to look into the claims.
“I have no issue with the Noosa trip if it was to get away and just throw your phone away, down tools, go on the beach, all of that stuff,” said Key.
“If it goes into where they’re drinking lots and it’s a stag do, all of that type of stuff, that’s completely unacceptable. I’m not a drinker, I think a drinking culture doesn’t help anyone in any stretch whatsoever.”
The fourth of the five Ashes Tests starts on Christmas Day in Melbourne, where England fans will be hoping the team can put in a much improved showing and avoid the prospect of a series whitewash.
