Ben Duckett apologises for Ashes incident and faces three-year IPL ban
England batter Ben Duckett has withdrawn from the Indian Premier League to reboot his international career and issued an apology for an alcohol-related incident during the recent Ashes series.
The 31-year-old was scheduled to represent the Delhi Capitals on a £200,000 contract but has pulled out of the upcoming franchise tournament.
This sudden withdrawal means the Nottinghamshire star now faces an automatic three-year suspension from the lucrative competition.
Apology following Australian struggles
The decision follows a dismal winter campaign down under where the tourists succumbed to a heavy 4-1 series defeat against Australia.
The opening batsman struggled for form throughout the tour and was embroiled in controversy when footage emerged of him intoxicated in Noosa.
An investigation by the England and Wales Cricket Board followed the incident, which occurred during a break between Tests while the team was already 2-0 down.
“I am sorry for that incident, it was not professional and shouldn’t have happened. There is no hiding away from it.”
Ben Duckett
The left-hander explained that the previous four years of his career had been entirely focused on achieving success during this pivotal winter schedule.
Looking toward an uncertain future
Despite travelling with the squad for the recent T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka, the Trent Rockets signee failed to make a single appearance.
Spending extended periods on the sidelines has prompted the seasoned professional to evaluate his long-term international prospects across all formats.
“Not playing in the World Cup, and being on the sidelines in India after such a tough Ashes series was a struggle for me.”
Ben Duckett
However, the embattled cricketer insists these recent setbacks have ignited a renewed determination to reclaim his regular starting position.
