Andrew Symonds sent packing home for drinking problem, to miss World Twenty20

According to Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland, the 33-year-old Symonds will sit out from the ICC World Twenty20 tournament, which is taking place in England as he had committed a series of misdemeanors which, though "not serious" in isolation, "are enough for it to be the final straw in the scheme of things, in the scheme of history."

"We have stood Andrew down from the World Twenty20 championship. The decision was made by the Cricket Australia board following a recommendation from our management. The recommendation from the management was made following a recommendation from the leadership group, which was unanimous in recommending this course of action," Sutherland said.

Sources close to the development said the gifted yet temperamental player was sent packing home as he breached the team's disciplinary rules on alcohol. "Symonds was punished for drinking while watching the opening State of Origin rugby league game between Queensland and New South Wales, which his home state won 28-18 on Wednesday," the source said.

"It seems to be more about him breaking promises he made than the amount of beer he consumed. Part of Australia's strength, it seems to me, is that their players are expected to be highly committed and motivated to play for their country," the source added.

"Andrew has had his fair share of challenges recently and Cricket Australia has tried to support him. But it's a constant balancing act and has gone too far today. Andrew is disappointed and upset but there shouldn't be any surprise by what's happened," Sutherland said.