SYDNEY – Former Australia Test cricketer David Warner has been convicted and fined A$1,500 for driving under the influence of alcohol.
An Australian court heard the case after Warner pleaded guilty to the offence last month. His lawyer, Owais Ahmed, asked the court not to record a conviction, arguing that the incident had already received extensive media coverage and could affect Warner’s financial agreements.
The court rejected the request, stressing that a clear message must be sent to discourage drink-driving and prevent similar offences in the future.
In addition to the fine, Warner has been ordered to use an alcohol interlock device to drive legally. He must obtain the relevant licence and have the device installed in his vehicle before he can drive.
The device is designed to prevent a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver’s breath.
The incident occurred while Warner was in Sydney during a break from his Pakistan Super League commitments. He was subjected to a random breath test after allegedly driving following alcohol consumption.
Australian media reports said Warner had switched seats with a passenger before reaching the testing location.
Warner, one of Australia’s most prominent modern-era batters, has since completed his court appearance and been formally sentenced for the offence.
