After handcuff footage, ECB takes big call on Carse before Pakistan 2nd Test

Brydon Carse withdrawn from England Test squad (Screengrabs)

England have dropped fast bowler Brydon Carse from their squad for the second Test against Pakistan after social media footage emerged showing him in handcuffs outside a nightclub in Derby on Saturday night.The decision comes as the Cricket Regulator begins an investigation into the incident.The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed that Carse will not be available for the second Test while the investigation continues.

“Following a referral from the ECB, the Cricket Regulator have confirmed that they will investigate events on Saturday night in Derby. Brydon Carse will no longer be available for selection for the Second men’s Rothesay test match while this investigation is ongoing and the full facts are obtained,” the ECB said in a statement.

Carse was reportedly not arrested and was released without charge. He had been celebrating Durham’s County Championship victory over Derbyshire at a nightclub when the incident occurred. A video shows the fast bowler in handcuffs speaking to Durham teammate Matthew Potts, with former England captain Ben Stokes also visible in the background.

Fresh disciplinary concerns for England

Carse had been part of England’s squad for the opening two Tests against Pakistan but was released during the first match to return to Durham for their County Championship campaign.

The latest incident adds to disciplinary concerns surrounding England’s players. Stokes and fast bowler Gus Atkinson were recently investigated over another nightclub-related incident during England’s series against New Zealand.The Carse controversy also comes after England removed their midnight curfew ahead of the Pakistan series. The restriction had been introduced following late-night incidents during winter tours of New Zealand and Australia, but was scrapped under newly appointed captain Joe Root.With the investigation now underway, Carse’s availability for England’s upcoming matches remains uncertain.