England withdraw Carse from Pakistan second Test pending regulator probe
The ECB has removed Brydon Carse from the squad for the upcoming match at Lord’s after footage emerged of the fast bowler in handcuffs in Derby, marking the latest disciplinary challenge for the national team.
The England and Wales Cricket Board has confirmed that fast bowler Brydon Carse will not be available for selection for the second Test against Pakistan at Lord’s. The decision follows the emergence of social media footage showing Carse in handcuffs outside a nightclub in Derby on Saturday night. The ECB stated that the player will remain unavailable while the Cricket Regulator investigates the events and obtains the full facts.
According to the ECB, the Cricket Regulator has confirmed it will investigate the incident in Derby. Carse was reportedly released without charge after the episode, which occurred while he was celebrating Durham’s County Championship victory over Derbyshire. Video footage captured the fast bowler speaking to Durham teammate Matthew Potts while handcuffed, with former England captain Ben Stokes visible in the background.
Sonny Baker has been named as the replacement for Carse in the England squad. Carse had originally been part of the squad for the opening two Tests against Pakistan but was released during the first match to return to Durham for their County Championship campaign. His withdrawal now leaves his availability for future matches uncertain until the investigation concludes.
The incident adds to a series of recent disciplinary concerns surrounding England’s players. Former captain Ben Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were recently investigated over another nightclub-related incident during England’s series against New Zealand. These events have prompted scrutiny of the team’s off-field conduct during international tours.
The controversy also highlights the governance changes implemented under newly appointed captain Joe Root. England removed their midnight curfew ahead of the Pakistan series, a restriction that had previously been introduced following late-night incidents during winter tours of New Zealand and Australia. The removal of the curfew has placed additional focus on the players’ individual responsibility.
With the Cricket Regulator’s investigation now underway, the ECB has prioritised institutional clarity over immediate squad stability. The decision to withdraw Carse reflects a cautious approach to managing the team’s reputation while the specific details of the Derby incident are determined.
