Plunkett banned from driving for 20 months

LONDON: Liam Plunkett, a member of the World Cup-bound England cricket team, has been banned from driving for 20 months after he admitted that he drove in drunken state to cause an accident a few months ago.

The 21-year-old bowler was breathalysed when he crashed into another car after leaving Yarm's Tall Trees nightclub in October, Teesside magistrates heard.

The court heard that as Plunkett approached a set of traffic lights at Yarm, near Stockton-on-Tees, his foot slipped off the brake causing the accident.

In the tests, he gave a reading of 172mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood against the legal limit of 80mg in 100ml.

Plunkett, a key player in England's Commonwealth Bank one-day tri-series win over Australia, was driving at a speed that was more than twice the legal limit.

He appeared in the court on Monday, where he admitted that he was acting irresponsibly and sought apology for his behaviour.

"I am deeply sorry for what I did and there is simply no excuse for it. I acted irresponsibly. I would also like to apologise to my family, friends, team mates and coaches for the embarrassment I have caused them," he said.

"I accept that I am a role model, especially for youngsters, and for this reason I am particularly sorry about what happened. My cricket career is extremely precious to me and I am determined not to waste the amazing opportunity," Plunkett, who was ordered to pay 50 costs, said.

The Durham bowler was the joint leading wicket-taker in the CB tri-series and is expected to play a crucial role in England's campaign in the World Cup.