Former Australia opener David Warner has been convicted of mid-range drink-driving by a Sydney court and fined AUD 1,500. The 39-year-old cricketer has also been ordered to have an alcohol interlock device fitted to his vehicle before he can drive again.

Warner pleaded guilty to the offence last month after being stopped during a random breath test on Easter Sunday, April 5. According to the court proceedings, Warner had stopped short of a roadside testing site and attempted to switch seats with a female passenger before police identified him as the driver. He later cooperated with officers and recorded an alcohol reading of more than twice the legal limit.

The conviction has also raised questions over Warner’s position as captain of Sydney Thunder ahead of the upcoming Big Bash League season. Thunder, along with Sydney Sixers and NSW Blues, is involved in a state government campaign promoting responsible driving.

Warner’s lawyer, Awais Ahmad, argued that the cricketer had already faced significant consequences because of extensive international media coverage. He also highlighted the potential impact on Warner’s commercial opportunities in T20 leagues.

However, Judge Clare Farnan stressed that deterrence was important, particularly because children were present in the vehicle at the time of the incident. She acknowledged the impact of social media criticism but said drink-driving remained a serious issue.

Warner will be able to drive again after obtaining an interlock licence and installing the required device. Cricket NSW said it continues to take the incident seriously and will educate players about safe driving.