England’s men’s cricket team entered the 2025–26 Ashes series in Australia with high expectations, widely seen as one of their best chances in years to reclaim the urn. Instead, Australia won the first three Test matches decisively, securing the series with two games still to play and leaving England’s campaign widely regarded as a disappointing failure on the field. 

Amid scrutiny over England’s performance, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has opened an investigation into reports about players’ conduct during a scheduled mid-series break in Noosa, Queensland. The team spent several days there between the second and third Tests. Media reports described parts of this period as resembling a multi-day social gathering with notable alcohol consumption, raising questions about discipline and preparation. 

ECB managing director Rob Key said he would examine the available information to determine whether any behaviour during the Noosa break went beyond what is acceptable for an international cricket side. He stated that drinking in excess would not be appropriate for professional players and that the board would “establish the facts” before drawing conclusions. The review follows earlier scrutiny over alcohol-related conduct on tour, including at least one social media video involving an England player. 

The discussion over off-field activity comes amid broader criticism of England’s preparation and team management after they lost consecutive Tests by wide margins. Questions have been raised about strategic decisions, overall team culture, and how break periods are structured during long tours. The ECB’s inquiry aims to clarify what occurred during the Noosa break and whether any disciplinary action is needed. 

Sources: Reuters, The Guardian, Sky Sports, NDTV Sports