England have come under scrutiny after online videos featuring Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell triggered debate about off-field discipline within the squad during the Ashes. The development follows a heavy 0-3 series defeat for the Ben Stokes-led side, who conceded the Ashes to Australia in just 11 days of play.
In a video, Ben Duckett appeared confused and struggled to find his way back to his hotel room, with someone nearby asking whether he needed a cab back to the training venue. Bethell was featured in multiple clips from a nightclub setting, including footage of him vaping and dancing with an unidentified individual.
The videos have fuelled debate around England’s discipline and focus away from the field, especially given the intensity and scrutiny that come with an Ashes series.
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Viral Video Details: Ben Duckett Disoriented, Jacob Bethell Vaping in Club
Ben Duckett showing how much he cares about the ashes. Elite sportsman midway through the ashes, unable to speak because he’s that drunk. Drop him #Ashes pic.twitter.com/KUcGxmCYa6
— Sam (@S_Ro8ins0n) December 23, 2025
Looks like Jacob Bethell’s having a ripper time in Noosa.
Yeahhh boyyyy😂#Ashes #BenDuckett #BenStokes #ashes25 #Bazball #RobKey #JhyeRichardson #Murphy #AUSvENG #TravisHead
pic.twitter.com/NJL5Ql8k0S— Charlie (@Shanks63331148) December 23, 2025
ECB Reacts After Unverified Video of Ben Duckett Appearing Drunk Goes Viral
The England and Wales Cricket Board has acknowledged the circulation of an unverified video involving Ben Duckett during the Ashes 2025-26 in Australia. Notably, the board stated that it is still assessing the situation and has not reached any conclusions yet.
“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,” an ECB spokesperson told Sky Sports.
According to Sky Sports, journalists closely tracked the visiting side in Noosa. It was reported that several players were seen spending extended periods – up to six days – drinking.
England Managing Director Rob Key Launches Formal Investigation
England’s men’s team’s managing director, Rob Key, said that they will review events surrounding the team’s mid-series break in Noosa. The comments came soon after England’s eight-wicket defeat in Brisbane left them 2-0 down in the Ashes.
The England and Wales Cricket Board insisted the four-day stay was not a holiday. Head coach Brendon McCullum had planned the break a year in advance, believing it would help players reset. No training sessions were scheduled during this period.
England improved in Adelaide but still lost by 82 runs, allowing Australia to retain the Ashes inside just 11 days. Ben Duckett also struggled during the series. He managed only 97 runs at a disappointing average of 16.16, with a top score of 29.
England Concede Ashes in 11 Days Ahead of Final Two Tests
England lost the Ashes after defeats in the first three Tests to Australia inside just 11 days. Along with off-field issues, England’s on-field performances drew heavy criticism. With the Ashes already gone, England will now shift their focus to the final two Tests in Melbourne and Sydney.
England began the tour badly in Perth. They were bowled out in under 67 overs across the match, allowing Australia to wrap up an eight-wicket win in less than two days.
England responded with more fight in Brisbane and Adelaide. The Ben Stokes-led team stayed competitive for long periods but failed to control key moments. They dropped catches and missed opportunities, which allowed Australia to take charge and secure victories in both matches.
