Brydon Carse cleared as police drop assault investigation that cost England quick his place in Pakistan Test series

September 18, 2026

Derbyshire Police have officially closed their inquiry into an alleged physical confrontation in Derby without filing any charges against Brydon Carse. The 31-year-old Durham cricketer had previously been detained for suspected drunk and disorderly conduct outside Molly Malone's tavern following his county team's 338-run triumph against Derbyshire, an outcome that aided Durham's successful promotion chase from Division Two.

Although officers quickly de-arrested Carse once he consented to vacate the premises, authorities subsequently initiated a separate probe into assault claims, though he was never taken into custody regarding that second matter.

The off-field controversy led directly to Carse's removal from England's roster for the three-match Test campaign against Pakistan, having earlier traveled to Headingley for the opener before being released for county action. England eventually achieved a 3-0 clean sweep in his absence, but the conclusion of the law enforcement investigation completely clears the fast bowler of any legal wrongdoing.