England's ODI and T20I captain, Harry Brook, has apologized for an altercation with a nightclub bouncer on the eve of an ODI during the team's trip to New Zealand ahead of the Ashes.
The incident came to light in the aftermath of England's 4-1 Ashes loss in Australia, a tour marred by criticism of the team's culture, including allegations of excessive drinking during a break in Noosa.
Harry Brook was punched by the bouncer the night before the Wellington ODI after being sent away from a party, according to a Telegraph report.
Brook, who is also England's Test vice-captain, has been given a final warning and fined almost GBP 30,000 for his actions, although he has kept his white-ball leadership position.
"I want to apologize for my actions. I fully accept that my behavior was wrong and brought embarrassment to both myself and the England team. Representing England is the greatest honor of all, which I take seriously, and I am deeply sorry for letting down my teammates, coaches, and supporters.
I have reflected on the lessons it has taught me about responsibility, professionalism, and the standards expected of those representing your country. I am determined to learn from this mistake and to rebuild trust through my future actions, both on and off the field. I apologize unreservedly and will work hard to ensure this does not happen again,” Brook stated in a statement released to Telegraph Sport.
Adding to the statement, the ECB said, "We are aware of this incident, and it has been dealt with through a formal and confidential ECB disciplinary process. The player involved has apologized and acknowledged their conduct fell below expectations on this occasion."
Brook has had a dismal Ashes trip since being placed on a final warning, not living up to his status as the world's second-ranked batsman in Test cricket. In ten innings, he only managed two fifties.
A group of players, including Brook, was caught on camera consuming alcohol in a rooftop pub on the evening in question while the team was in Wellington at the end of October. The fight with Brook, however, was unrelated to that and took place later.
For now, the 26-year-old will continue to lead England until the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2026 and the limited-overs series in Sri Lanka, beginning in two weeks.
