Faulkner charged with drink driving

Cape Town - Cricket Australia (CA) has confirmed that all-rounder James Faulkner has been charged with drink-driving by Greater Manchester Police in the United Kingdom.

He has been released on bail and will face a court hearing in Manchester on July 21 after he returned a blood alcohol reading of approximately twice the UK’s legal limit (100 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath).

Faulkner has been in the UK representing Lancashire in England’s domestic cricket competitions.

He will also face charges under Cricket Australia’s Code of Behaviour for conduct that is unbecoming of a representative or official and harmful to the interests of cricket.

Cricket Australia Executive General Manager of Team Performance Pat Howard said: “I have made contact with James to understand the facts of the matter.

“It is clear that he made a very poor decision to get behind the wheel of a car after drinking and that decision had potential to cause serious harm to him and others.

“It is also clear that he is very disappointed and embarrassed by his actions given his position as a role-model to young people.

“This is a very real wake-up call for James and all other Australian cricketers around the importance of responsible decision making.

“I have expressed my extreme disappointment and have informed him of the consequences under English Law and Cricket Australia’s own regulations.”

Faulkner said: “I can't excuse my actions and understand that I have let people down. “My decision to drive was an error in judgement. 

“I apologise unreservedly and accept any penalty handed to me by Cricket Australia and the relevant authorities.”

Meanwhile, Lancashire County Cricket Club (LCCC) can confirm that Faulkner will not be selected for Friday's NatWest T20 Blast match against Yorkshire Vikings at Emirates Old Trafford.

LCCC will work alongside, and under the direction of, Cricket Australia and will consider additional steps that are deemed appropriate in the next few days.

LCCC said the conduct and standards of contracted players at LCCC are in unison with those of Cricket Australia.