England's cricket stars have found themselves in hot water off the pitch in Brisbane, after being caught riding electric scooters without helmets just days before the crucial second Ashes Test.
Ministers Blast 'Irresponsible' Pommy Cricketers
Queensland's Minister for Sport, Tim Mander, launched a stinging attack on the trio of Ben Stokes, Mark Wood, and Jamie Smith, labelling their actions "very irresponsible." The politicians seized the opportunity to promote a new road safety campaign, with Mander stating: "Don't be silly like the Pommy cricketers, wear your helmet."
Transport Minister Brent Mickelberg joined the criticism, quipping: "I don't want to see anyone bowled over on our streets – though judging by recent form, the Poms seem to prefer getting themselves out." He emphasised the serious risks, noting Queensland has already seen fatal e-scooter crashes.
Police Intervention and Hefty Fines Avoided
Queensland Police confirmed on Tuesday they had spoken with the players after images of the incident circulated online. Officers "educated them on compliance requirements" but decided against issuing fines. Under Queensland law, riding an e-scooter without a bicycle or motorbike helmet can result in a penalty of up to $166 (approximately £82).
Many of the Lime Scooters available around Brisbane have helmets attached, but photographs showed Smith and Wood riding with the helmets still fixed to the front of the vehicles.
Unwanted Distraction Ahead of Gabba Test
The scooter saga presents an unwanted distraction for captain Ben Stokes ahead of the must-win second Test at The Gabba, which begins on Thursday. England's preparations have already been heavily scrutinised, with former Australia bowler Mitchell Johnson calling the tourists "arrogant."
Adding to England's woes, Mark Wood has been ruled out of the Test due to a recurrence of his knee injury. Photographs showed him riding a sit-down e-scooter with a plastic brace on his knee. He has been replaced in the starting XI by all-rounder Will Jacks.
Stokes recently addressed criticism of the team's character, stating he felt "arrogant" was too strong a term. He also apologised for branding former England players Michael Vaughan and Ian Botham "has-beens," calling it a "horrible word" and a slip of the tongue.
