Australian cricketer James Faulkner has been issued with a two-year ban from driving after pleading guilty to drink-driving.

The 25-year-old, who plays county cricket for Lancashire, slammed into the back of a car while driving over the limit in West Didsbury, Manchester on July 2.

Manchester Magistrates' Court heard that the all-rounder drove home in his Toyota vehicle from a restaurant because he did not want to walk a mile in heavy rain.

In a statement via Cricket Australia, Faulkner said: "I can't excuse my actions and understand that I have let people down. My decision to drive was an error in judgement. I apologise unreservedly and accept any penalty handed to me by Cricket Australia and the relevant authorities."

Faulkner has also been fined £10,000.