Tensions are rising off teh pitch and also on for England’s Ashes tour, following an incident at Brisbane Airport on Saturday involving a 7 News camera operator and a member of the team’s support staff. The altercation, which occurred while the team was traveling to adelaide, prompted a statement from the network confirming a physical confrontation despite the cameraman reportedly operating within guidelines.With England down 2-0 in the series, this incident adds another potential distraction as they prepare for a crucial third Test match.
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An altercation between a 7 News camera operator and a member of the England cricket team’s support staff occurred at Brisbane Airport on Saturday, sparking a statement from the network and raising tensions as the Ashes series continues.
According to reports, the incident took place as the England team was traveling between cities. England is currently facing an uphill battle in the series after losing the first two Tests.
“They were friendly with us, and this didn’t happen up there, so it was quite a shock when it happened,” Carrigan said.
“I understand he has got a job to do, but that was totally uncalled for.”
Seven aired footage of the incident on its nightly news bulletin. The cameraman did not appear to have intruded on the English players.
“Earlier today, there was an incident at Brisbane Airport involving a 7 News camera operator and a member of the England Cricket team’s travelling party,” Seven said in a statement on Saturday.
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“While conducting routine filming in a public space, the camera operator was physically confronted despite acting respectfully and professionally. The safety and wellbeing of our staff is paramount. This matter is being taken seriously and is now being managed through the appropriate channels.”
Seven insisted the cameraman had not agitated or interfered with the England team while in transit.
A spokesman for the England and Wales Cricket Board declined to comment on the situation.
“Nothing to see from us at the moment,” the spokesman said.
Upon arriving in Adelaide, England captain Ben Stokes expressed his team’s focus on the upcoming third Test.
“We are refreshed and ready to go,” Stokes said.
A security guard at Adelaide Airport, when approached for comment, stated he had no information regarding the Brisbane incident.
“What’s that?” the guard replied when asked if he wished to comment about the Brisbane incident.
Cricket Australia has consistently reminded media outlets to maintain a “respectful distance” when filming the teams at airports throughout the summer series.
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“The Australian and England teams will not be available for interview while in transit between matches during the Ashes series. All airport, hotel and transit is vision only, to be captured from a respectful distance,” CA has said in official press releases.
The incident adds another layer of complexity for the touring England side, who are attempting to recover from consecutive Test losses in Perth and Brisbane and now face a critical match in Adelaide this week.
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