ECB Probes Viral Video of ‘Drunken’ England Star Ben Duckett

New Delhi, December 24, 2025: A storm of controversy has erupted within the English cricket squad following the circulation of an explosive video featuring opening batter Ben Duckett. In the footage, which went viral on December 23, 2025, the 31-year-old cricketer is observed appearing heavily inebriated and seemingly unable to locate his hotel room. The clip was reportedly filmed during the team’s four-day “refresh” break in Noosa, Queensland—a getaway taken between the second and third Test defeats that has now come under intense public scrutiny.

A Disoriented Interaction in Noosa

The viral recording shows a disoriented Duckett engaging with members of the public on a street at night. During the brief interaction, the cricketer was heard slurring his words and admitting that he “did not know” how to get back to his accommodation. A bystander was heard mockingly offering to book him an “Uber to the nets,” a stinging reference to the batter’s poor form during the series, where he has averaged a meager 16.16. The situation was further aggravated by claims that Duckett used a profane remark toward a fan who questioned his state of sobriety.

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The ECB’s Formal Response

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) was forced to address the growing digital storm as the video amassed millions of views. An official statement was issued confirming that the board is currently “establishing the facts” regarding the content circulating on social media. It was clarified by an ECB spokesperson that while players are under high levels of scrutiny, they are held to “high expectations for behavior.” The board has noted that established disciplinary processes will be followed if the conduct is found to have fallen below the required professional standards.

Claims of a “Stag-Do” Culture

The video surfaced just as England’s Managing Director, Rob Key, expressed concerns over reports that the Noosa break resembled a “stag-do.” It has been alleged by multiple sources that some members of the squad engaged in prolonged drinking sessions over the course of five or six days. Key has emphasized that “drinking excessive amounts of alcohol is completely unacceptable” for an international team, particularly while trailing 0-3 in the series. While the trip was initially defended by coach Brendon McCullum as a necessary mental break, it is now being viewed as a symptom of a lack of discipline within the camp.

A Troubled History and Team Welfare

The incident is particularly sensitive given that Ben Duckett was previously sanctioned during the 2017-18 tour for a similar alcohol-related offense involving James Anderson. Despite the outcry, England captain Ben Stokes has been observed publicly defending his teammate, stating that his primary concern remains the “welfare” of his players during this difficult tour. As the team prepares for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne, this viral episode remains a vivid reminder of the immense pressure and off-field challenges facing the squad as they struggle to avoid an Ashes whitewash.