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Ashes 2025: 'Five or six days of drinking' — England players' behaviour set for review

England's cricket team is under intense scrutiny following their rapid collapse in the Ashes 2025 series against Australia, with allegations of excessive drinking during a team break in Noosa sparking an official investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). The controversy erupted after a video surfaced showing player Ben Duckett appearing intoxicated, amplifying criticisms of the squad's preparation and discipline amid a 3-0 series deficit.

The Swift Demise of England's Ashes Campaign

England entered the 2025 Ashes hoping to reclaim the urn for the first time since 2015, but their dreams shattered in just 11 days. Australia secured an unassailable 3-0 lead with decisive victories in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide, marking the fastest defeat for any team since 2002. The series kicked off on November 21 in Perth, followed by a three-day affair in Brisbane ending December 7, and the fateful third Test in Adelaide on December 17.

With the urn lost before Christmas, attention has shifted from on-field performance to off-field behavior. Former players from both England and Australia are questioning every decision, particularly the team's mid-series break in Noosa, a resort town north of Brisbane on the Sunshine Coast.

The Noosa Break: From Recharge to Revelry?

The pre-planned four-night stay in Noosa was intended as a mental reset before the third Test. England managing director Rob Key initially supported the idea, stating, "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." However, reports emerged of prolonged drinking sessions turning the trip into what some described as a "stag do."

Key drew a clear line: "Stories of players drinking six days solid, that’s unacceptable. We’ll be looking into seeing what the facts are as opposed to the things that have been embellished." He emphasized the difference between casual enjoyment—like a wine with dinner—and excessive consumption that impairs preparation. "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."

Vice-captain Harry Brook later admitted the team avoided cricket discussions entirely, and efforts by captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum for early morning runs were reportedly ignored by some players. Local radio presenters even ambushed sunbathing squad members on the beach, setting a tone of distraction.

Ben Duckett's Viral Video at the Center of the Storm

The flashpoint came with a widely shared video on X (formerly Twitter) showing Ben Duckett, 31-year-old opening batsman, outside a shopping center in Noosa. Filmed between the second and third Tests, Duckett appears slurring his words and struggling to find his way home. When asked by a group if he knew how to get back, he replied, "No." One person in the video references "we're losing two-nil," confirming the timing.

Duckett, averaging just 16 runs in the series, was reportedly spotted drinking until 11pm at Rococo Bistro, 25 minutes' walk from the filming location. This isn't his first brush with discipline in Australia; in 2017, he was dropped from the development squad for pouring a drink over Sir James Anderson's head.

The ECB responded swiftly: "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."

Broader Allegations Against the Squad

Beyond Duckett, reports suggest multiple players engaged in regular heavy drinking. Photographs of five or six team members at lunch with drinks fueled speculation. Key promised a thorough review, referencing a prior incident where white-ball captain Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell were spoken to for drinking before an ODI against New Zealand.

The Noosa trip has drawn widespread criticism for undermining preparations, especially after England's string of defeats. Critics argue it reflects deeper issues in the dressing room culture under Stokes and McCullum, known for their aggressive "Bazball" style but now under the scanner for planning and execution.

ECB's Investigation and Road Ahead

Rob Key has ordered an internal probe to separate fact from exaggeration. "Headlines can be misleading at times, saying it's a stag do and stuff like that," he noted, but stressed unacceptable conduct must be addressed. The investigation is sensitive, as England faces the fourth Test on Christmas Day at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), followed by the fifth in Sydney.

Fans hope for pride-restoring performances to avoid a whitewash, but distractions could compound woes. Key aims to reassert authority, ensuring the dressing room ethos remains intact. "Excessive alcohol consumption was not something that I'd expect to see at any stage," he affirmed.

Historical Context of Ashes Discipline Issues

The Ashes, contested since the 19th century between cricket powerhouses England and Australia, has seen its share of off-field dramas. England's 2025 woes echo past tours where poor discipline contributed to losses. The home-soil advantage proved decisive again, with Australia dominating comprehensively.

Stokes' leadership, once hailed for innovation, now faces questions. McCullum's influence is also scrutinized, as the team must deliver with bat and ball in Melbourne to salvage reputation.

Impact on Player Careers and Team Morale

For Duckett, the video could jeopardize his spot, given his modest series returns. The ECB's high standards extend support for players needing help, balancing discipline with welfare. Broader squad members risk reputational damage, with public backlash intensifying online.

Key's review seeks to prevent future lapses, distinguishing relaxation from recklessness. As England prepares for MCG, focus returns to cricket—though the drinking saga overshadows their campaign.

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What Lies Ahead for England in Ashes 2025

With two Tests remaining, England plays for pride. Melbourne's Boxing Day clash demands a response—strong batting, sharp bowling, and renewed focus. The Noosa fallout underscores professional sport's fine line between downtime and discipline.

The ECB probe will shape future policies, potentially influencing selection and culture. Fans worldwide watch as England confronts this crisis, hoping for redemption Down Under. The 2025 Ashes, marred by controversy, reminds us: on tour, every action counts.

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