David Warner admits ‘reckless, foolish’ decision after drink-driving charge in Sydney

Former Australian cricketer David Warner has been charged with mid-range drink-driving after allegedly recording a blood alcohol level more than twice the legal limit during a police check in Sydney. Warner’s lawyer told a court on Thursday that the former opener accepted responsibility for what he described as a “reckless” and “foolish” decision to drive after consuming alcohol. The matter was mentioned before Waverley Local Court and has been adjourned until June 24.

According to the allegations, Warner was stopped by police in Sydney’s eastern suburbs on April 5 after reportedly failing to complete a roadside breath test. Police later conducted a secondary breath analysis, during which Warner allegedly recorded a blood alcohol concentration reading of 0.104. Authorities subsequently charged him with a mid-range drink-driving offence under New South Wales law.

Warner did not appear personally in court during Thursday’s proceedings. His lawyer Bobby Hill informed the court that representations had been made to police and sought additional time for authorities to consider them. Speaking outside court, Hill said Warner had consumed three glasses of wine at a friend’s apartment before deciding to drive instead of taking alternative transport. He stated that Warner acknowledged his actions were wrong and was remorseful over the incident.

Hill also claimed that Warner consumed his last drink 11 minutes before being stopped by police and alleged there was a 52-minute delay before the second breath test was administered. He further stated that Warner expected to face punishment like any other citizen in New South Wales and would seek leniency while accepting responsibility for the offence.

The incident has also raised questions regarding Warner’s future as captain of Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League. Cricket officials stated earlier that the matter would be reviewed at a later stage. Warner, who retired from Test cricket in 2024 after scoring 8,786 runs in 112 matches for Australia, had reportedly been returning from the Pakistan Super League during the period of the incident before later resuming his campaign.