Root frustrated by Carse nightclub incident ahead of second Test

England captain Joe Root expressed frustration on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, over a nightclub incident involving fast bowler Brydon Carse, which has added to a series of off-field controversies for the team ahead of the second Test against Pakistan at Lord's. Carse was detained by police on suspicion of being drunk and disorderly outside a Derby nightclub on Saturday, August 22, following a county championship celebration. He has been removed from the squad for the Test starting Thursday, August 27, and is under investigation by the independent Cricket Regulator. Speaking to the media, Root said he was "really hacked off" and "really disappointed" that the team's focus had shifted away from their dominant first Test victory. "It's not the isolated incident itself, it's the fact we continuously keep making stupid mistakes away from the game and it's detracting from what we are doing on the field," Root stated. He confirmed he had spoken with Carse, adding, "He's very upset, very apologetic and understands his actions." The incident is the latest in a pattern of alcohol-related issues for the England squad.