Australia's James Faulkner charged with drink-driving
Australian all-rounder James Faulkner has been charged with a drink and drive case in England. Faulkner is in the country for his current season with his English county side Lancashire.
The World Cup final hero recorded a blood alcohol level of 100 microgrammes in 100 millilitres of breath, which is approximately twice as much as the United Kingdom’s legal limit.
He had been charged by the Greater Manchester Police and is currently out on bail. He’ll be appearing in Manchester court on 21st July for his hearing.
Moreover, the 25-year-old will also be facing charges from Cricket Australia (CA) under Code of Behaviour for ‘conduct that is unbecoming of a representative or official and harmful to the interests of cricket’.
After the incident, Faulkner issued a public apology for his conduct.
“I can't excuse my actions and understand that I have let people down, my decision to drive was an error in judgement. I apologise unreservedly and accept any penalty handed to me by Cricket Australia and the relevant authorities,” Faulkner was quoted saying by cricket.com.au.
Cricket Australia and Lancashire’s reaction
Pat Howard, CA Executive General Manager of Team Performance, was quoted saying to the website, “I have made contact with James to understand the facts of the matter. It is clear that he made a very poor decision to get behind the wheel of a car after drinking and that decision had clear potential to cause serious harm to him and others.
“It is also clear that he is very disappointed and embarrassed by his actions given his position as a role model to young people. This is a very real wake-up call for James and all other Australian cricketers around the importance of responsible decision making.”
Howard has also warned him of the consequences of his actions.
“I have expressed my extreme disappointment and have informed him of the consequences under English Law and Cricket Australia’s own regulations”, he stated.
Lancashire County Cricket Club has also reassured that he will not be playing against Yorkshire Vikings at Old Trafford in tonight’s upcoming NatWest T20 Blast match.
The Club will further work with CA for the next few days and will contemplate any further measures which they might have to take, considering the circumstances.
Lancashire Club also confirmed the conduct and standards of all contracted players, domestic or international are in accordance with those warranted by Cricket Australia.
The Tasmanian player is not a part of the current 17-man Test squad but is expected to contest in the ODI series that is to follow after the five Ashes Test.