Overview
- A social-media clip purports to show Ben Duckett intoxicated during England’s pre-planned Noosa break between the second and third Tests, though its timing and authenticity remain unverified by outlets citing it.
- Managing director Rob Key said the ECB is establishing the facts and will examine claims the downtime took on a “stag-do” tone.
- Michael Vaughan wrote that players should not be reprimanded on the evidence available, arguing the episode reflects cricket’s long-standing drinking culture across nations.
- He broadened his critique to leadership and preparation, noting Noosa was booked a year in advance while access to the WACA was not and pointing to coaching and attention-to-detail gaps.
- Ben Stokes has stressed player welfare as England prepare for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, with the tourists 3–0 down and Duckett struggling for runs.