Stuart Broad Stands by Ex-England Teammates Amid Drinking Controversy

The England team is currently facing a huge scrutiny after getting defeated by Australia in the Ashes. The freshly evolved drinking controversy has made matters worse, as fans are demanding answers for such reckless behavior on the tour. An internal Ashes review process has also been launched by the ECB to assess the performance and behavior of the team over the last few months.

Former England pacer Stuart Broad has now come forward in defense of the England team. He stated that the team does not have a drinking culture, however, some players should have been more mindful of their personal actions to avoid negative publicity.

"They've just had a couple of guys who have made mistakes and that's got into the media. I think it's up to your teammates to get you out of those situations, and that's when your culture's really strong.” said former England pacer, Stuart Broad.

He pointed out the recent incidents that have put the England team in a negative spotlight. The controversy involving Ben Duckett and Harry Brook was certainly among the events that made things difficult for the team. Due to that, he believes Brendon McCullum must be deeply disappointed, as he was not expecting such behavior from his players.

"Ben Duckett isn't left alone, no idea where his hotel is. Harry Brook doesn't get himself in a situation with a bouncer, because they're not allowed anywhere near that situation. So I think that's the thing that will disappoint Baz [head coach Brendon McCullum].” said Stuart Broad.

"I really didn't like having a 12 o'clock curfew, because I just didn't feel like you should need it. As long as you have people around you to get yourself home at a suitable hour, having the team-mates around you to go,' your time's up'." added Stuart Broad.

Players Need a Mental Break from Cricket

Broad then said that international players need some time off from the cricket field. While this doesn’t mean that players can do whatever they want, they do need a mental break to refresh their minds.

"As an international player, you need some sort of release. I'm not saying it's 'have a few beers, whatever your release is', but if you don't have that mental switch-off, it drives you mad if you don't do anything.” said Stuart Broad.

He then stated firmly that England players do not have a drinking culture, as it does not reflect their background. Due to being a former player who has represented England for a long time, he understands how challenging it can be for some players when they are on international tours away from home.

"Cricketers are away six months of the year in hotels. [But] there isn't a drinking culture. I'll hang my hat on that, knowing the boys as well as I do. But it is just making sure the boys don't get in trouble when situations arise." said Stuart Broad.

Need to Showcase More Awareness and Responsibility

Jos Buttler also gave his opinion about the responsibility of players on international tours. He said that players need to take care of themselves, as they are representing not just a team but an entire nation. This is something every international cricketer needs to understand, as it is essential for all.

"A lot of it is optics as well, isn't it?. You've got to be so aware. Your teammates look after you, but you've got to look after yourself. That is a price you pay for being an international cricketer and playing for England.” said Jos Buttler.

"You can't just go and do whatever you want. You're professional, you have to live a professional life, which the boys do, and you have to make it look that way as well." concluded Jos Buttler.