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Ben Duckett Admits Ashes Misconduct, Skips IPL to Rebuild for England

The public apology signals a reset in a squad under scrutiny for preparation and conduct.

Cricket - Third Twenty20 International - Sri Lanka v England - Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, Kandy, Sri Lanka - February 3, 2026 England's Ben Duckett takes a catch to dismiss Sri Lanka's Kamil Mishara off the bowling of England's Luke Wood REUTERS/Lahiru Harshana
England batsman Ben Duckett struggled for runs during a 4-1 Ashes series loss in Australia

Overview

  • England opener Ben Duckett said his off-field behaviour during the Ashes was unacceptable after a mid-series video from Noosa showed him appearing drunk.
  • He withdrew from the Indian Premier League with Delhi Capitals to play for Nottinghamshire, turning down a deal worth about 20 million rupees.
  • Duckett called his returns in Australia substandard after scoring 202 runs at an average of 20.20.
  • He thanked Ben Stokes, Brendon McCullum and Rob Key for support and said his place for the June 4 Test against New Zealand is not assured.
  • England lost the Ashes 4-1, and questions over preparation and off-field standards have lingered even as McCullum remained as head coach.