Top 5 cricket controversies that shocked fans in 2025

Cricket in 2025 had drama both on and off the field. High-pressure matches went on to make headlines not only for the contest but the controversy around it.

Decisions by officials were dissected frame by frame, technology triggered heated debates, and administrative calls were criticized. While the game continued to produce exciting action, it was the constant off-and-on-field drama that generated immense eyeballs.

Here are 5 cricket controversies that shocked fans in 2025

5. Ben Duckett's video amid drinking allegations

England opener Ben Duckett made headlines after a video surfaced on social media during the Ashes tour, allegedly showing him drunk and struggling to find his way back to the team hotel in Noosa. The clip went viral during England’s planned mid-series break between the second and third Tests, a period organised to help players mentally reset after going 0-2 down in the series.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) quickly accepted the video and said it was working to establish the facts, stressing its high expectations of player behaviour. Managing director Rob Key confirmed an investigation based on initial feedback and stated the squad had largely been well behaved.