Derbyshire Police have concluded their inquiry into the alleged assault involving England cricketer Brydon Carse, deciding that no criminal charges will be brought against him. The decision follows an incident that took place outside a nightclub in Derby, where Carse was briefly handcuffed and subsequently missed the second and third Tests of England's series against Pakistan. The episode unfolded in early August when Carse, then 31, was celebrating a County Championship victory with his Durham teammates.
The team had just secured a win over Derbyshire, and the players were out enjoying the night in the city centre. Photographs captured Carse speaking with fellow bowler Matthew Potts, while former England captain Ben Stokes could be seen in the background, adding to the media interest in the gathering.
According to a statement released by Derbyshire Police, officers responded to a call at the Wardwick area of Derby in the early hours of Sunday, 23 August. They found a man who appeared to be drunk and disorderly and placed him in handcuffs as a precaution. After taking his personal details, the police released him, and the man was formally de‑arrested.
Subsequent follow‑up investigations focused on the alleged assault claim. When the purported victim was located and interviewed, the police determined that there was insufficient evidence to pursue further action, and the case was closed.
With the criminal avenue now closed, the matter has been handed over to the independent Cricket Regulator. That body will decide whether Carse’s conduct warrants any disciplinary measures under the sport’s code of conduct.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has been approached for comment, but no official response has been published at the time of writing. Since the night in Derby, Carse has returned to his duties with Durham County Cricket Club. He contributed significantly to Durham’s successful campaign in the Rothesay County Championship Division Two, helping the side clinch the title and secure promotion.
Despite his on‑field performances, Carse has not been recalled to the England set‑up. He was dropped from the squad ahead of the second Test against Pakistan and was also omitted from the final Test of that series.
Although technically eligible for selection in the ongoing white‑ball series against Sri Lanka, he has remained on the sidelines. England’s limited‑overs head coach, former New Zealand captain Brendon McCullum, used the situation to reinforce the importance of personal responsibility off the field. He said, “I’ve spoken to Carse a lot and the message is consistent – you need to make good decisions away from the pitch so you can be the best version of yourself.” McCullum added that Carse now has an opportunity to “get his house in order” and work his way back into contention for future national selection.
Test captain Joe Root also weighed in ahead of the Lord’s Test, expressing frustration with the growing number of alcohol‑related incidents involving England players. Regarding Carse, Root remarked, “I don’t think I’m speaking out of turn when I say he’s very upset, very apologetic and understands his actions. I’m sure when he gets his chance, he’ll say the same.” Root’s comments reflect a broader concern within the England camp about maintaining professional standards both on and off the field. The incident has sparked a wider conversation about player conduct, the role of team management in guiding younger athletes, and the impact of off‑field behaviour on selection decisions.
While Carse’s legal situation appears resolved, his future with the national side now hinges on the outcome of the Cricket Regulator’s review and his ability to demonstrate sustained professionalism. Fans can still catch England’s third T20 match against Sri Lanka live on Sky Sports Cricket and Sky Sports Main Event, scheduled for 2:30 pm on Saturday. The broadcast will also feature the latest Sky Sports deals and streaming options, though no contract with NOW is currently in place.