England have come under scrutiny after online videos of Ben Duckett and Jacob Bethell sparked debate within the team about off-field discipline during the Ashes. The development comes after the Ben Stokes-led side suffered a massive 0-3 series defeat that handed Australia the Ashes in just 11 days of play.
In one video, Ben Duckett appeared confused and struggling to find his way back to his hotel room, with someone nearby asking if he needed a cab back to the training ground. Bethel was featured in several clips from a nightclub setting, including footage of vaping and dancing with an unidentified man.
The video has fueled debate over England’s discipline and focus off the field, especially given the intensity and scrutiny that comes with an Ashes series.
Viral Video Description: Ben Duckett Strayed, Jacob Vaping at Bethel Club
Ben Duckett is showing how much he cares about Ash. The elite player in the ashes, unable to speak due to being intoxicated. drop it #ash pic.twitter.com/KUcGxmCYa6
– Sam (@S_Ro8ins0n) 23 December 2025
Looks like Jacob Bethel is having a fun time in Noosa.
yes son#ash #bendkate #benstokes #ash25 #buzzball #robkey #jhayerichardson #murphy #AUSvENG #TravisHead
pic.twitter.com/NJL5Ql8k0S– Charlie (@shanks63331148) 23 December 2025
ECB’s reaction 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 said that it is still assessing the situation and has not yet reached any conclusion.
An ECB spokesperson told Sky Sports, “We are aware of the content being circulated on social media. We have high expectations for behaviour, recognizing that players are often placed under intense scrutiny, with established procedures that we adopt when their conduct falls short of expectations. We also support players who require assistance. We will not comment further at this stage until we have established the facts.”
According to Sky Sports, journalists kept a close eye on the visiting team in Noosa. It was reported that several players were observed drinking alcohol for extended periods of time – up to six days.
England Managing Director Rob Key launched a formal investigation
The managing director of the England men’s team, Rob Key, said they would review the incidents surrounding the team’s mid-series break in Noosa. The comments came shortly after England suffered an eight-wicket defeat in Brisbane, leaving them 2-0 down in the Ashes.
The England and Wales Cricket Board stressed that the four-day stay is not a holiday. Head coach Brendon McCullum had planned the break a year in advance, believing it would help the 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 in just 11 days. Ben Duckett also struggled during the series. He managed only 97 runs at a disappointing average of 16.16, with his highest score being 29.
England won the Ashes in 11 days before the last two Tests
England lost the Ashes after losing the first three Test matches to Australia in just 11 days. As well as the off-field issues, England’s on-field performance was also heavily criticised. With the Ashes already over, England will now turn their attention to the final two Test matches in Melbourne and Sydney.
England’s tour had a bad start in Perth. He was bowled out in less than 67 overs in the entire match, allowing Australia to win by eight wickets in less than two days.
England responded with more fighting in Brisbane and Adelaide. The Ben Stokes-led side remained competitive for long periods but failed to control the crucial moments. He dropped catches and missed chances, which helped Australia gain the lead and win both matches.
Also read: Drunk during the Ashes! ECB forced to investigate Ben Stokes and England stars after Noosa liquor scandal comes to light
