Overview:
With the urn gone before Christmas, every decision is being questioned by former English and Australian players.
England’s managing director, Rob Key, has issued instructions for an internal check on the national team’s conduct during their Ashes break at Noosa after damaging claims of heavy drinking surfaced. England players are facing massive flak after three consecutive defeats in the ongoing five-match Test series. According to The Independent, Key is investigating the matter as he is not in favour of standards going down even when players are given downtime.
England have already lost the series and will play the remaining two games for pride, with the critics now highlighting the culture around captain Ben Stokes and head coach Brendon McCullum.
Key tried to separate the idea of enjoyment and crossing the limits. He has no issues with the players taking a break from cricket and drinking, but the veteran stressed there is a difference between having a wine with dinner and heavy drinking that impacts preparations.
The controversy is hogging the limelight after England’s collapse, with the visiting side losing first three matches inside 11 days. With the urn gone before Christmas, every decision is being questioned by former English and Australian players.
Key also referenced to an incident when white-ball captain Harry Brook and Jacob Bethell were seen drinking before an ODI against New Zealand. The officials spoke to the players and informed them about the standards needed.
The ongoing investigation is sensitive and England players cannot afford another distraction with the fourth Test a few days away. Key wants to reassert authority and assure critics that the dressing room ethos will not be taken for granted. Stokes and McCullum are also under the scanner for their planning and execution.
England must deliver with the bat and ball at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.