Rob Key, England's managing director of cricket, has announced an investigation into reports that players turned their mid-Ashes break into a 'stag do' and drank excessively. The team spent four nights in Noosa, Australia, between the second and third Tests, both of which they lost, leaving them 3-0 down in the series.
Reports claimed some players drank for six consecutive days, starting in Brisbane after the second Test and continuing in Noosa. Key told BBC Sport: 'Stories of players drinking six days solid - that's unacceptable. We'll be looking into seeing what the facts are as opposed to the things that have been embellished or elaborated on.'
The trip was arranged before the tour, and Key was not present. He had previously warned players about their conduct. 'If it's true that it became a stag do and people are out drinking all the time excessively, that's not acceptable,' he said, adding that he does not agree with a drinking culture.
The investigation increases scrutiny on head coach Brendon McCullum, who says he wants to remain in charge but admits the decision is not his. Speaking ahead of the fourth Test in Melbourne, McCullum said: 'It's a pretty good gig... You travel the world with the lads and try to play some exciting cricket.'
Australia will be without captain Pat Cummins and spinner Nathan Lyon for the fourth Test, starting on Boxing Day. Cummins is recovering from a back injury, while Lyon requires surgery for a torn hamstring.
