NEW DELHI: Former Australia batter David Warner is facing legal trouble after being charged with drink-driving in Sydney. The 39-year-old, who currently leads Sydney Thunder and Karachi Kings, was allegedly flagged during a routine breath test with a blood alcohol reading of 0.104—more than twice the permitted limit. Warner is scheduled to appear in court on May 7, with reports suggesting the matter may not interfere with his involvement in the Pakistan Super League.
Cricket NSW responds, future impact
Cricket New South Wales has acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and said it will stand by Warner as the case moves through the legal process. Chief executive Lee Germon said the organisation strongly promotes safe driving and treats drink-driving incidents with particular gravity. Germon added that Warner understands the seriousness of the allegations and that the franchise body will support him through the upcoming proceedings.
What happened and what Warner said
Police said the incident occurred during a random roadside check in Maroubra. Officers reported that a vehicle appeared to stop short of the testing area before they approached the driver. A roadside breath test returned a positive result, and Warner was taken to Maroubra Police Station where a second test allegedly confirmed the reading of 0.104.
In its statement, police said: “About 5:30pm today (Sunday 5 April 2026), police were conducting stationary random breath testing on Malabar Road, Maroubra.” Police continued: “A van was seen to allegedly stop short of the testing site and park. Officers attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol Command approached the vehicle and subjected the driver—a 39-year-old man—to roadside testing which returned a positive result.”
Police further stated that Warner was arrested and taken to Maroubra Police Station, where a second test allegedly produced a reading of 0.104. He was then issued with a Field Court Attendance Notice for a charge described as driving with middle-range PCA, directing him to appear before the Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday, May 7, 2026.
Reports also claim Warner told police he had consumed three glasses of wine before driving home. While he is continuing to play in the PSL for now, the outcome could carry consequences for his public image and any existing commercial arrangements if he is found guilty.
