Former Australia captain Steve Smith broke down in tears as he apologised for his part in the ball-tampering scandal.
Smith and batsmen David Warner and Cameron Bancroft have been banned by Cricket Australia for the incident in the third Test against South Africa. “It was a failure of my leadership,” said the 28-year-old at a news conference in Sydney. Bancroft and Warner have also apologised for their actions.
Australia coach Darren Lehmann, who was cleared of any involvement in the incident, announced later on Thursday that he would stand down following the current Test series with South Africa. Smith added: “I am deeply sorry, I love the game of cricket, I love kids wanting to play the great game of cricket that I love. Any time you think about making a questionable decision, think about affecting your parents. To see the way my old man has been, and my mum, it hurts. I just want to say I’m sorry for the pain I have brought to Australia and the fans and the public.”
Photo Credit: Getty
