Former Australia batsman David Warner was convicted and fined A$1,500 ($1,065) for drink-driving by a Sydney court on Tuesday.
Warner pleaded guilty after police arrested him in April. The 39-year-old failed a breath test during the Easter weekend while driving his family home after a social function in Sydney’s eastern suburbs.
His blood-alcohol reading exceeded twice the legal limit.
Warner Tried to Swap Seats
Waverley Local Court heard that Warner stopped his car after spotting a roadside breath-testing site.
He then attempted to swap seats with a female passenger.
Judge Clare Farnan said Warner was unlikely to commit another offence. However, she stressed the wider dangers of drink-driving in New South Wales.
“I accept Mr Warner is unlikely to re-offend,” Farnan told the court.
She added that drink-driving remains a major factor in many crashes across the state.
The judge also said the presence of children in Warner’s car aggravated the offence.
Interlock Device Required
Warner played 112 Tests and more than 250 limited-overs internationals for Australia.
As part of the court’s decision, he must install an interlock device in his car. The device will prevent the vehicle from starting if it detects alcohol in his system.
Warner left the court without speaking to the large group of reporters outside.
His management did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters.
Lawyer Cites Media Coverage
Before the court announced its decision, Warner’s lawyer argued against a conviction.
His lawyer said Warner had already faced additional punishment because of the media coverage surrounding the incident.
“Commercial opportunities (are) being affected,” Australian media quoted Awais Ahmad as saying.
Warner works as a commentator for Fox Sports Australia. He recently joined the broadcaster’s team covering the Australia-Bangladesh Test in Darwin.
He also captains Big Bash League side Sydney Thunder.
The team is part of a New South Wales government campaign that aims to discourage drink-driving.
Cricket NSW Takes Incident Seriously
Cricket New South Wales did not comment on Warner’s position as Sydney Thunder captain when Reuters contacted the organisation.
However, Cricket NSW said it strongly supports safe driving practices.
“Our organisation is a strong advocate of safe driving, including avoiding drink driving,” Cricket NSW said in a statement.
“We continue to take this incident seriously, including educating all players on the importance of safe driving.”
