Former Australia batter David Warner has been convicted of mid-range drink-driving and ordered to use an alcohol interlock device for 12 months.
WEB DESK: Former Australian Test cricketer David Warner has been convicted of drink-driving and fined A$1,500 following his guilty plea in an Australian court.
The case was heard by an Australian court after Warner admitted to the offence last month.
Warner fined after guilty plea
According to Australian media reports, Warner’s lawyer, Owais Ahmed, asked the court not to record a conviction, arguing that the incident had already received extensive international media coverage and could potentially affect the former cricketer’s financial agreements.
The court, however, said sending a message to discourage drink-driving was important. It also noted that Warner’s circumstances indicated a low likelihood of him committing the offence again.
Interlock device required
Under the court’s order, Warner will also be required to use an alcohol interlock device before he can drive.
The device is designed to prevent a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver’s breath.
Warner will need to obtain the relevant licence and have the device installed in his vehicle before he is permitted to drive.
Incident occurred during PSL break
The incident occurred while Warner was in Sydney during a break from his Pakistan Super League commitments.
Australian media reported that Warner underwent a random breath test while driving after consuming alcohol.
Reports also alleged that Warner had changed seats with a passenger in the vehicle before reaching the location where the breath test was conducted.
Warner subsequently pleaded guilty to the drink-driving offence.
Warner’s cricket career
Warner is one of Australia’s most prominent modern cricketers. The former opening batter represented Australia across all three formats and enjoyed a highly successful Test career.
He retired from international cricket after a career spanning more than a decade and remains involved in franchise cricket around the world.
The court proceedings now bring the drink-driving case to a conclusion, with the A$1,500 fine and alcohol interlock requirement forming part of the penalties imposed.
