A tense incident occurred at Brisbane Airport on Saturday when an England cricket team security guard and a cameraman got into a heated confrontation. The episode took place when the England team was checking in for their flight to Adelaide to play the third Test of the ongoing Ashes series. The altercation, captured by an intermediary, shows the security official confronting the cameraman and repeatedly asking him to back off, attracting local and international media attention.
In the viral video, a security guard is seen forcefully instructing the cameraman to move away during the check-in process. The security guard reportedly reached out her left arm and made contact with the cameraman as he continued filming. Television footage showed the guard confronting the cameraman and saying: “Take it easy mate, don’t be smart,” while pushing him several meters away.
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) did not issue a public statement on the incident, while the Australian media highlighted it as another setback for England on a tour already marred by trouble. A Channel 7 spokesperson said the issue was being taken seriously and was being dealt with through the appropriate channels.
“While carrying out routine filming in a public area, a cameraman was physically confronted despite acting in a polite and professional manner. The safety and welfare of our staff is paramount. This matter is being taken seriously and is now being managed by the appropriate channels,” Channel 7 said in a statement.
The incident comes at a crucial time for England, with the team trailing 0-2 in the five-match Ashes series. Losing the first two Tests has put Ben Stokes and his teammates under increased pressure to achieve a turnaround.
England’s preparations for the Ashes have been repeatedly criticized, with observers questioning the squad’s focus and preparedness. England opted not to field senior players in the pink-ball warm-up against the Prime Ministers XI in Canberra, leading to further training sessions in Brisbane. These choices have been scrutinized in light of England’s early series losses and recent off-field distractions.
Head coach Brendan McCullum’s candid assessment has added to the ongoing debate about England’s approach. After the second heavy defeat in a row McCullum said they were “too prepared” and called for further discussion whether the team’s strategy can contribute to their struggles. The England camp is now under pressure to refocus and address both performance and public perception.
The team’s pre-planned break in Noosa and recent pictures of the players participation in beach soccer also drew criticism. Questions about discipline and priorities continue to loom as England try to regroup for the remaining matches of the Ashes series.
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Issued by:
Rishabh Beniwal
Published on:
December 14, 2025
