Harry Brook apologises after nightclub incident on New Zealand tour

England batter Harry Brook has issued an apology after being involved in a confrontation with a nightclub bouncer on the eve of an ODI during England's New Zealand tour ahead of the Ashes. The incident emerged in the aftermath of England's 4-1 Ashes loss in Australia, a tour overshadowed by criticism of the team's culture, including claims of excessive drinking during a break in Noosa.

According to a Telegraph report, the England white-ball captain was hit by the bouncer after being denied entry to a club the night before the Wellington ODI. Brook, who also serves as England's Test vice-captain, has retained his white-ball leadership role but has been fined about GBP 30,000 and been handed a final warning for this conduct.

"I want to apologise for my actions," said Brook in a statement. "I fully accept that my behaviour was wrong and brought embarrassment to both myself and the England team. "Representing England is the greatest honour of all, which I take seriously and I am deeply sorry for letting down my team-mates, coaches and supporters. I have reflected on the lessons it has taught me about responsibility, professionalism and the standards expected of those representing your country.

"I am determined to learn from this mistake and to rebuild trust through my future actions, both on and off the field. I apologise unreservedly and will work hard to ensure this does not happen again."

Adding to the statement, the ECB said: "We are aware of this incident and it has been dealt with through a formal and confidential ECB disciplinary process. The player involved has apologised and acknowledged their conduct fell below expectations on this occasion."

Brook only scored 358 runs in 10 innings without a century in the five-match Ashes. For now, the 26-year-old will continue to lead England until the forthcoming T20 World Cup 2026 and the limited-overs series in Sri Lanka, beginning in two weeks' time.

On the night of the incident, Brook and his England teammate Jacob Bethell were also filmed drinking in a video posted on social media.

Ahead of the fourth Ashes Test, England director of cricket Rob Key revealed he had spoken to Brook and Bethell about their behaviour in New Zealand. "I didn't feel like that was worthy of formal warnings, but it was probably worthy of informal ones," said Key, referring to the video on social media.

Earlier, calling for a review into the Ashes debacle, ECB chief executive Richard Gould had said the team's "behaviour" will also be analysed.

The England cricket team had taken a four-night break in Noosa between the second and third Tests.