Stokes, Wood, and Smith Breach Queensland Road Rules After Ashes Loss
BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA: England’s cricketing trio, including Test captain Ben Stokes, have risked police action and fines after being pictured riding e-scooters in Brisbane without wearing helmets, a mandatory requirement under Queensland road laws.
The touring side arrived in Brisbane following their crushing eight-wicket defeat in the Ashes opener in Perth, leaving a significant gap before the second Test begins on December 4. Stokes, along with fast bowler Mark Wood and wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith, were spotted using e-scooters to explore the city.
However, the players were photographed in breach of Section 256A(1) of Queensland’s Road Rules, which dictates that riders must wear protective headgear. The fine for this infringement can reach up to A$166. Smith was notably pictured on a scooter that had a helmet attached but unused.
Wood, who is dealing with knee discomfort and has been ruled out of the second Test as a precaution, was seen wearing heavy protective strapping.
This is not the first time England players have encountered trouble with Australian authorities; previous incidents include Kevin Pietersen being fined for speeding in 2010-11 and commentator Jonathan Agnew being penalized for jaywalking in Adelaide seven years later.
