Australia suspend James Faulkner on behavioural grounds

James Faulkner during a match at NatWest T20Blast

Sydney, July 14 (IANS) Australian all-rounder James Faulkner was suspended on Tuesday following Cricket Australia (CA) 'Code of Behaviour' process.

The board has charged the 25-year-old with a level three offence under its 'Code of Behaviour' after he was found to have been driving under the influence of alcohol in the United Kingdom earlier this month.

"Faulkner has been charged under the code for conduct that is unbecoming of a representative and that is or could be harmful to the interests of cricket. In accordance with the procedure of the code, he was offered - and accepted - sanctions in lieu of a hearing before a Code of Behaviour Commissioner," said a CA release.

He received a four-match ban and will not be able to play against Ireland and England in late August and September.

Given he will be unavailable for a significant component of that series, Faulkner will not be considered for the Australian T20 or one-day international squads when announced in mid-August. He however, may be considered as a replacement for an injured player following his suspension if required.

"Faulkner will also have to undergo an alcohol management counselling programme as determined by the Cricket Australia Chief Medical Officer and pay for any damage to property caused by his actions while driving. He has also been formally reprimanded by Cricket Australia for his behaviour," the release added.

CA Executive General Manager of Team Performance Pat Howard said: "James has acknowledged the seriousness of his actions and has accepted the penalties handed down today. He has cooperated fully with the disciplinary procedure and is deeply remorseful."

"We have reminded James that his actions had serious potential to cause harm to him and others. Aside from the suspension handed down, he has been formally reprimanded for his behaviour."

"In saying that, we do acknowledge that James has been a player with a good track record and we would like to think that this episode is very much out of character," added Howard.

Meanwhile, it has been learnt that the Lancashire County Cricket Club has carried out its own disciplinary process and will continue to work in conjunction with CA to whom Faulkner is a contracted employee.