ECB Launches Investigation into Ben Duckett's Conduct During Noosa Trip

The England and Wales Cricket Board is investigating a video showing Ben Duckett appearing intoxicated during a team trip to Noosa after a Test defeat. Managing director Rob Key has expressed concerns over player behavior and drinking culture, emphasizing the need for accountability. The ECB has stated that the trip was intended for player relaxation, not a holiday. Duckett's performance in the ongoing Ashes series has been underwhelming, raising further scrutiny. This investigation comes amid discussions about maintaining high standards of conduct within the team.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 24, 2025, 08:24 IST

Investigation into Ben Duckett's Behavior

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is currently looking into a video that allegedly shows England opener Ben Duckett intoxicated and having difficulty returning to the team hotel during a break in Noosa, following a significant defeat in the second Test at Brisbane.

This footage surfaced on social media on Tuesday, shortly after Rob Key, the team's managing director, announced that an inquiry would be initiated regarding the Noosa trip, which took place between the second and third Tests.

The ECB clarified that the four-day stay in Noosa was not intended as a vacation but was pre-planned by head coach Brendon McCullum to help players recharge. During this period, several players opted for downtime without any scheduled training, according to reports.

Rob Key Addresses Player Conduct and Drinking Culture

Key, who did not join the team in Noosa, initially thought the players behaved appropriately. However, after England's loss in the Adelaide Test by 82 runs, comparisons were made between the trip and a stag party.

At a press conference at the MCG on Tuesday, Key stated he would investigate the events of the break and determine if any disciplinary measures were necessary.

"If there are claims that our players engaged in excessive drinking, we will certainly look into that," Key remarked, as reported by ESPNcricinfo. "Excessive alcohol consumption is not something I expect from an international cricket team, and it would be a mistake not to investigate what transpired. However, from what I have heard, they behaved well."

"I have seen the reports circulating recently, and if it suggests they were drinking heavily and it resembled a stag do, that is entirely unacceptable. I do not drink, and I believe a drinking culture is detrimental to everyone involved," he added.

"I have no problem with the Noosa trip if it was meant to be a break from routine, to relax on the beach, and disconnect. Everything I've heard indicates they had meals together, did not stay out late, and had a few drinks. I am fine with that. If it escalates beyond that, then it becomes a concern for me... There may be differing opinions on this, but we will uncover the truth," he concluded.

England's Struggles in the Ashes Series

Despite a commendable effort in chasing down 435 runs in Adelaide, England was dismissed for 352, extending their wait for an Ashes series victory in Australia since the 2010/11 season.

ECB's Official Statement

The ECB issued a statement saying, "We are aware of the content circulating on social media. We maintain high standards for player behavior, recognizing that they are often under significant scrutiny, and we have established protocols for when conduct falls short of expectations. We also provide support for players who require assistance. We will refrain from further comments at this time while we gather the facts."

Duckett's Recent Performance and History

Although Duckett has been one of England's more reliable Test batsmen, he has struggled during the Australian tour, accumulating only 97 runs in six innings at an average of 16.16, with a top score of 29, even being outperformed by Australian pacer Mitchell Starc.

The 31-year-old was also part of a previous tour to Australia eight years ago, where he faced disciplinary action from the ECB for pouring a drink over veteran James Anderson at a bar in Perth.