Driving ban for England cricketer

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England cricketer Liam Plunkett has been banned from driving for 20 months after he admitted drink-driving.

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.

Plunkett, who starred in England's one-day series win over Australia, was more than twice the legal limit.

Following Monday's court appearance, he admitted acting irresponsibly and apologised to family and team-mates.

The late-night incident happened at a set of traffic lights at Yarm, near Stockton-on-Tees.

I am deeply sorry for what I did and there is simply no excuse for it. I acted irresponsibly Liam Plunkett

The court heard that, as Plunkett approached a set of traffic lights, his foot slipped off the brake and he crashed into another car.

After being breathalysed, arrested and taken for more tests, he gave a reading of 172mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood.

The legal limit is 80mg of alcohol in 100ml of blood.

Speaking on Monday, Plunkett, of Marton, Middlesbrough, said: "I am deeply sorry for what I did and there is simply no excuse for it. I acted irresponsibly.

'Role model'

"I would also like to apologise to my family, friends, team mates and coaches for the embarrassment I have caused them.

"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 that I have been given."

The court also ordered Plunkett to pay £50 costs.

Durham bowler Plunkett has just returned from the three-month tour of Australia and, after sitting out the Ashes series, played in the Commonwealth Bank triangular tournament, finishing as joint leading wicket-taker.

He is part of the England World Cup squad, who will fly out to the Caribbean on 2 March.