Pallekele (Sri Lanka), Jan 31 (.) England white-ball captain Harry Brook has issued a fresh apology over a nightclub incident during last year’s New Zealand tour, admitting he still has “more to learn” about the off-field responsibilities of leadership.
Brook’s statement came following England’s win in the opening T20I against Sri Lanka, as the 25-year-old sought to clarify his earlier comments regarding the incident in Wellington in October.
“I accept responsibility for my actions in Wellington and acknowledge that others were present that evening,” Brook said. “I regret my previous comments, and my intention was to protect my teammates from being drawn into a situation that arose as a result of my own decisions.”
He added that the episode had highlighted areas for personal growth.
“I recognise that I have more to learn regarding the off-field responsibilities that come with leadership and captaincy. I remain committed to developing in this area and to improving both personally and professionally,” Brook said.
The incident occurred on the eve of England’s third One-Day International against New Zealand in Wellington last October, when Brook was involved in an altercation outside a nightclub and was struck by a bouncer. Brook had initially stated that he was alone at the time, but it later emerged that teammates Jacob Bethell and Josh Tongue were also present.
The matter was subsequently referred to the Cricket Regulator, which is investigating the conduct of all three players. Brook has already been fined USD 41,076, the maximum penalty permitted, and issued a final warning over his behaviour off the field.
England is currently touring Sri Lanka in the build-up to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, scheduled to begin on February 7.
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