Ashes 2025-26: England security guard involved in altercation with Channel 7 camera operator at airport

England’s troubled Ashes 2025-26 tour witnessed another off-field controversy on Saturday when a member of the team’s security staff was involved in an altercation with a Channel Seven camera operator at Brisbane Airport. The incident occurred as England were departing for Adelaide ahead of the third Test.

The confrontation took place as England’s touring team checked in for their flight after a mid-series break in Noosa. Footage aired by Channel Seven showed the security guard physically pushing the camera away and repeatedly attempting to block filming as the broadcaster sought routine vision of the players in a public space. Notably, England is trailing 2-0 in the Ashes after defeats in Perth and Brisbane, with the third Test at Adelaide Oval now a must-win to keep the series alive.

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Channel 7 release statement regarding the incident

Meanwhile, Cricket Australia’s media protocols for the Ashes clearly state that teams are not available for interviews while in transit and that airport coverage should be vision only from a respectful distance. Channel Seven later confirmed that its camera operator was left shocked by the incident, describing the encounter as unnecessary given the circumstances.

In a statement, the network said the operator was conducting routine filming in a public area and was acting professionally when he was physically confronted. The matter, Seven said, was being taken seriously and handled through appropriate channels.

Since arriving in Australia, Ben Stokes and his players have largely taken scrutiny in their stride. They were filmed playing golf before the opening Test, laughed off drone footage, and reacted calmly to criticism after being photographed riding e-scooters without helmets in Brisbane.

During the Noosa break, players were approached by media at beaches and bars, with Stokes even posing for photographs. Unofficially, England has encouraged their security staff to operate with a light touch, especially given the number of fans requesting selfies during the tour.