England has dropped fast bowler Brydon Carse from its squad for the second Test against Pakistan. The decision came as a sports regulator looks into an incident outside a club in Derby. The case became a major England cricket story on August 25, 2026.
Carse was seen in police handcuffs outside a bar. The Cricket Regulator is looking into what happened. England then left him out of the squad for the next Test. The inquiry is still under way, so the full facts are not yet known.
England has called up Sonny Baker to the squad. Baker is a less experienced pace bowler. His call up comes at a key time for the team. England must now adjust its attack before the Test against Pakistan.
The decision adds pressure to England’s plans. Carse has been part of the team’s pace group. His role can be important when England needs extra speed and bounce. Losing him means the team must find another way to share the workload.
England also wants to keep its focus on the Test. Pakistan will be looking to use any change in the attack to its benefit. A new bowler can bring fresh energy. But a lack of Test experience can also bring risk.
The inquiry is separate from the cricket result. No final finding has been announced. That means it is important to avoid claims about what happened before the process is complete. England has acted by leaving Carse out while the matter is reviewed.
The news has also drawn attention because England has faced other discipline issues. The team has tried to set clear standards for player conduct. The latest case puts those standards under fresh focus.
Carse’s absence may also change England’s bowling plan. The team must decide whether to use another fast bowler or change the balance of the attack. That choice could depend on the pitch and weather.
For Carse, the next step will depend on the inquiry. The regulator will examine the facts around the club incident. Any action will come after that process. Until then, the case remains open.
England’s focus now turns to Pakistan. The second Test will test the depth of its pace attack. Baker has a chance to make an impact. England will hope the change does not weaken its push for another win.
