‘I was there’: Former Australia all-rounder adds fresh twist to Noosa drinking controversy

NEW DELHI: The Noosa drinking controversy surrounding England’s Ashes squad has taken another turn, with former Australia player and coach Darren Lehmann offering a first-hand account that challenges the widely reported narrative.

Lehmann counters media narrative

Lehmann, who was in Noosa during the break, said the portrayal of England’s players was far from accurate.

“I was actually there. They were really well behaved. They mixed with the locals and had a good time,” he told ABC Sports, adding that criticism tends to grow louder when a team is struggling on the field.

No signs of excessive drinking

The former Australia coach firmly dismissed suggestions of heavy alcohol consumption. “The reports of them stagging it up are just wrong,” Lehmann said, explaining that the players were “polite and a delight to the people of Noosa” throughout their stay.

Lehmann revealed that England’s players used the break to unwind and connect rather than party irresponsibly.

“They played golf and soccer with the locals and did all that sort of stuff,” he said, highlighting the positive interactions between the team and the local community.

England’s professionalism

Lehmann also questioned the backlash and the need for an investigation.

“I would defend them a bit because that is just out of order. It feels like they are running a campaign against them,” he remarked, before adding that from what he observed, “they are professional athletes and they were well behaved.”