England’s cricket team will have a curfew in place for the upcoming T20 World Cup following recent embarrassing incidents in New Zealand and Australia. The team faced defeats in recent tours and came under scrutiny due to off-the-field alcohol-related incidents.
In New Zealand, England suffered a 3-0 loss in the One-Day International series before enduring a shambolic 4-1 defeat in the Ashes. Concerns were raised about the team’s behavior, particularly after a boozy trip to Noosa mid-series and a controversial incident involving Test vice-captain Harry Brook outside a nightclub in New Zealand.
As a response, the England and Wales Cricket Board has implemented a curfew for the players before the T20 World Cup and the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka. The players are required to return to the team hotel before midnight to uphold their responsibilities as representatives of the team.
The team is set to play three ODIs and T20s against Sri Lanka before competing in the World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Previous incidents, including a video of a drunk Ben Duckett during the Ashes break in Noosa, have led to increased scrutiny on the team’s conduct.
In a statement, Harry Brook expressed regret for his actions and acknowledged the impact on himself and the team. The ECB has faced criticism for its handling of the team’s behavior, with director of cricket Rob Key defending the team’s professionalism while emphasizing the need for responsible conduct.
A review has been initiated by ECB chief executive Richard Gould to assess tour planning, individual performance, and behavioral standards following the Ashes disappointment. The focus is on improving adaptability and effective responses to challenges faced by the team.