ECB refrains from selecting Carse for SL series, asks him to 'work through' off-field issues

London: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has left fast bowler Brydon Carse out of the upcoming white-ball series against Sri Lanka, despite the player being eligible for selection.

According to an ECB spokesperson cited by Cricinfo, the decision is intended to allow Carse time to reset and resolve the circumstances surrounding a recent incident in Derby. The board noted that his exclusion does not indicate any outcome regarding ongoing inquiries.

The white-ball tour features three T20Is beginning in Southampton on September 15, followed by matches in Cardiff on September 17 and Manchester on September 19. The two sides will then play three ODIs, starting in Chester-le-Street on September 22, moving to Leeds on September 24, and wrapping up at The Oval on September 27.

Carse was previously dropped from England’s Test squad following a brief arrest on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly while celebrating Durham's County Championship win. Derbyshire Police confirmed they are looking into an alleged assault connected to the evening, though Carse's precise involvement has not been established.

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Along with missing the Sri Lanka white-ball fixtures, Carse was omitted from the squad for the third Test against Pakistan.

"Whilst Brydon was available for selection, he has not been picked for the Sri Lanka series squad. Given recent events, we feel it is important for him to work through the issues that led to the Derby incident and take time for a proper reset. This decision does not prejudge the outcome of any investigation," an ECB spokesperson told Cricinfo.

The pacer previously served a suspension in 2024 for past violations of the ECB's betting rules. Since returning, Carse became a key bowler across all formats for England, finishing as their top wicket-taker during the recent Ashes tour in Australia. (ANI)