Ben Duckett admits there is “no hiding away” from his infamous Noosa gaffe that shone a light on England’s off-field culture during the torrid 2025/26 Ashes tour.

The opener was part of a touring side that lost 4-1 to Australia during the summer, failing to register a half-century and averaging just over 20 from his 10 innings.

The most memorable moment from Duckett’s trip was a viral clip of him under the influence of alcohol outside a pub after the second Test, which only came to light after the Aussies won the third Test and wrapped up the series with a 3-0 lead.

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Speaking to the UK Telegraph this week, Duckett apologised for the incident and spoke about the impact it had on him during the latter part of the series.

“The build-up to the Boxing Day Test was one of the toughest moments of my career, but I’m so grateful for the support I received,” he said.

Ben Duckett has addressed his Noosa incident. Nine/Getty

“I am sorry for that incident, it was not professional and shouldn’t have happened. There is no hiding away from it.

“After all that, I was pleased to play a part in a win in Melbourne, and Zak [Crawley] and I got us off to a good start in a tricky chase. To win a game in Australia was amazing.

“At Sydney, I actually believe that was as well as I’ve batted in a Test. That might sound stupid to people, but in the second innings I got 40 and Starc was bowling rockets.

“A small part I’m proud of is that I embraced the whole occasion. I copped a bit of stick from the crowd, but never shied away from it and gave a bit back with a smile.

“I had a poor series in Australia. I know that, and am gutted about it. I would love to be there for the next Ashes series to put that right.”

Duckett has been one of the biggest beneficiaries of the Bazball era under coach Brendon McCullum, who has encouraged the left-hander’s aggressive approach.

While the pressure is mounting on the coach despite an internal review backing him to continue, Duckett has also shown loyalty back to England’s red-ball team.

This week, Duckett confirmed he would be withdrawing from the IPL, despite going for $1.13 million at the auction to join the Delhi Capitals.

Ben Duckett.  Getty

“It was a very difficult decision, and I want to apologise to everyone at Delhi that I won’t be coming,” he said.

“I felt it was going to be a great opportunity when I put myself in the auction, and for a franchise like Delhi to pick me up was amazing. I was buzzing.

“I don’t know if I’m potentially saying goodbye to the IPL, having never played in it.

“With the age I am now, it might be tough for me, but I hope one day I’m able to represent Delhi … but I’ve thought a lot about this, and know it’s the right decision.”

Duckett faces a three-year ban from the tournament under IPL rules.

He is expected to feature for England during their home Test summer against New Zealand and Pakistan later this year.