England white-ball captain Harry Brook has issued an apology for an incident which took place on the team's tour of New Zealand ahead of the Ashes.
Harry Brook involved in altercation with nightclub bouncer in New Zealand
A report from The Telegraph, published shortly after England lost the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney to confirm a 4-1 series-defeat, revealed an incident which took place on England's white-ball tour of New Zealand in November. It was reported that Brook was struck by a bouncer in Wellington, after he was refused entry to a nightclub the day before the third ODI of the series. England lost the match, and Brook was dismissed for six amid a collapse which left the side 44-5.
The report adds that Brook reported himself to the England team management, following which he was given a 'final warning' and was close to losing his white-ball captaincy role. He was also fined approximately £30,0000.
Brook replaced Ollie Pope as England's Test vice-captain ahead of the Ashes, and has been England's white-ball captain since April last year. The reporting of the incident brings England's mid-Ashes holiday to Noosa, during which Brook was pictured drinking with other members of England's squad, into sharper focus following criticism of that trip.
An ECB spokesperson 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 apologised and acknowledged their conduct fell below expectations on this occasion.”
Brook issues public apology
Brook released an apology via The Telegraph, which read:
“I want to apologise for my actions. I fully accept that my behaviour was wrong and brought embarrassment to both myself and the England team.
“Representing England is the greatest honour of all, which I take seriously and I am deeply sorry for letting down my team-mates, 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 apologise unreservedly and will work hard to ensure this does not happen again.”
The 26-year-old's next assignment as England captain is the tour of Sri Lanka which comprises of three ODIs and three T20Is, followed by the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.
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