Faulkner banned over drunk-driving charge

World Cup winner James Faulkner will miss Australia's limited overs matches against England and Ireland after Cricket Australia (CA) banned the all-rounder for drunk-driving.

The 25-year-old faces a court hearing in Manchester next week after being charged with drink-driving by Greater Manchester Police while playing for English county side Lancashire. CA said Faulkner had been punished for "conduct that is unbecoming of a representative and that is or could be harmful to the interests of cricket". His suspension covers the matches against Ireland on August 27, and England on August 31, September 3 and September 5. A CA statement confirmed: "Given he will be unavailable for a significant component of that series, Faulkner will not be considered for the Australian T20 or one-day international squads when announced in mid-August. 

"Faulkner may be considered as a replacement for an injured player following his suspension if required."

The player will have to undergo an alcohol management counselling programme, the statement added, and has picked up a formal reprimand. CA performance director Pat Howard said: "James has acknowledged the seriousness of his actions and has accepted the penalties.”