Steve Smith & David Warner suspended for 12 months, Cameron Bancroft suspended for 9 months [#102]

[shane]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Cricket has been known as a gentleman's game. It's a game that I believe should be played in the purest form. Whatever has happened is unfortunate but the right decision has been taken to uphold the integrity of the game. Winning is important but the way you win is more important</p>— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/979021322226298880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Tendulkar always manages to find the most boring way of saying things.

 

[Hasan123]

Pathetic decision by CA. Ball tampering is something which all countries take part in. I think them being stripped of captaincy and missing out on the IPL was more than enough punishment.

 

[big_gamer007]

1 year for ball tampering.. And people here are actually agreeing would like to see clubs or countries banning their players for 1 year for taking a dive in football.. Just ridiculous OTT reaction by CA taken in emotion..

 

[kingusama92]

CA has lost its mind.

Can't wait to see Kamran Akmal's 6-month ban for dropping catches. Get it done Sethi.

 

[Napa]

Wrong.

They will lose more in endorsements. Smith already dropped by Weet-Bix, and Warner by LG.

They will also lose on their multi-million salaries with CA - which they will lose.

Do you know how much they make from endorsements?

 

[Send1983]

Pathetic decision by CA. Ball tampering is something which all countries take part in. I think them being stripped of captaincy and missing out on the IPL was more than enough punishment.

that's a stupid line I have been seeing over here from many of the folks here. you are trying to justify cheating. Not everyone is using external material to change the condition of the ball. if anyone is doing, that is against the ICC law/rule. if found out, player would be punished. incase if you still feel, everyone is doing, please provide proof or name some of the players who are doing this.

 

[Hasan123]

that's a stupid line I have been seeing over here from many of the folks here. you are trying to justify cheating. Not everyone is using external material to change the condition of the ball. if anyone is doing, that is against the ICC law/rule. if found out, player would be punished. incase if you still feel, everyone is doing, please provide proof or name some of the players who are doing this.

Other teams are doing they are getting away with it. You think Faf just woke up and decided to tamper with the ball?

 

[Nasirz]

Changing the condition of Ball, No bowlers involved
This looks suspicious and huge cover up , I think three players have been made scrapegoats

 

[Send1983]

Other teams are doing they are getting away with it. You think Faf just woke up and decided to tamper with the ball?

He did and he got caught and rightly punished. is he or anyone in his team still doing it? if so, any proof?

 

[Gubol123]

He did and he got caught and rightly punished. is he or anyone in his team still doing it? if so, any proof?

sir, anyone who has played any sort of competitive cricket know all the ways players work on the ball. some legal, some barely legal and some outright illegal. every squad at every level has someone who is ready to cross the line.. many times it is unspoken and understood. Players just know what needs to be done and they do it.. Bowlers know whom to throw the ball to. Skippers know whom to trust with the ball.. what was surprising was how blatantly in front of the cameras Aussies did what they did. They are either masters of it or really stupid...

 

[Send1983]

sir, anyone who has played any sort of competitive cricket know all the ways players work on the ball. some legal, some barely legal and some outright illegal. every squad at every level has someone who is ready to cross the line.. many times it is unspoken and understood. Players just know what needs to be done and they do it.. Bowlers know whom to throw the ball to. Skippers know whom to trust with the ball.. what was surprising was how blatantly in front of the cameras Aussies did what they did. They are either masters of it or really stupid...

You can tell the same for spot fixing, match fixing, etc., but where is the proof? you can blindly say Pakistani players are still doing spot fixing just because Amir did 5 yrs ago. he did, he got caught and rightly punished. I would not say players are still doing it with out any proof. if you say it is still happening, you are only encouraging some one to do it or reducing the severity of this cheating.

Yes each team picks one or two players in the team to shine the ball to get reverse swing. it does not mean that particular player is using bottle cap or tape or any external material to change the condition of the ball. He might sweat less compared to other players. so that he can keep one side dry. might be better at shining.

 

[James]

I’m impressed. Ruthless punishments that set a clear example of what not to do. The only seriously bizarre element regards Lehmann getting away with it. He should have been sacked on the spot.

 

[Hasan123]

He did and he got caught and rightly punished. is he or anyone in his team still doing it? if so, any proof?

One of ball tampering is throwing the ball into the right just before the keeper collects it. Literally all teams do it,I have seen games where umpires tell the players not to do it.

 

[Send1983]

One of ball tampering is throwing the ball into the right just before the keeper collects it. Literally all teams do it,I have seen games where umpires tell the players not to do it.

there is a big difference in bringing external material to the field to change the condition of the ball and throwing the ball on the ground.

 

[aloo paratha]

Why are people using "every country tampers with the ball" as an excuse? First of all there is no proof that other teams have been tampering for years, so that claim has no backing. Secondly, even if they were, just because 1 team is cheating, it doesn't mean all other teams can cheat too.

I think 1 year is a bit OTT, 6 months would've been fine imo and I feel really bad for Bancroft. But I'm still happy CA took this seriously, it'll make others think twice before they want to tamper.

 

[cric_man]

One of ball tampering is throwing the ball into the right just before the keeper collects it. Literally all teams do it,I have seen games where umpires tell the players not to do it.

Bouncing the ball on the ground should be fine. What happens when the batsmen hits the ball and sometimes it gets bounced on the secondary pitch? I have 4-5 over old balls getting coffed by concrete barriers when hit for 4s. That is all part of the play and should be ok.
The art of reverse swing is to keep one side of the ball as new (read shiny and dry as possible) and let the other side get worn up. If you had seen Wasim / Waqar bowl, the ball was dark red on one side and scuffed on the other. Usually Saqlain at mid on or mid off would take care of the ball.

 

[Aman]

Disgusting [MENTION=132373]Convict[/MENTION]

They lied about the sticky tape, it was sandpaper.

Why are people using "every country tampers with the ball" as an excuse? First of all there is no proof that other teams have been tampering for years, so that claim has no backing. Secondly, even if they were, just because 1 team is cheating, it doesn't mean all other teams can cheat too.

I think 1 year is a bit OTT, 6 months would've been fine imo and I feel really bad for Bancroft. But I'm still happy CA took this seriously, it'll make others think twice before they want to tamper.

1 year is fair, they lied even after they were caught. It was sandpaper

I’m impressed. Ruthless punishments that set a clear example of what not to do. The only seriously bizarre element regards Lehmann getting away with it. He should have been sacked on the spot.

It's fair, it was sandpaper. Smith and co. lied to officials after they had been caught. Had they told the truth they could have gotten shorter bans.

 

[Aman]

Pathetic decision by CA. Ball tampering is something which all countries take part in. I think them being stripped of captaincy and missing out on the IPL was more than enough punishment.

On another breathless day in South Africa all three were found guilty by their board of misleading match officials during the third Test in Cape Town. Smith and Bancroft then lied to the media, claiming sticky-tape had been used to change the condition of the ball. In fact, it was sandpaper.

1 year is fair, this is someone who thought it was excessive. The fact they lied when they supposedly came clean warrants it.

 

[cric_man]

One of ball tampering is throwing the ball into the right just before the keeper collects it. Literally all teams do it,I have seen games where umpires tell the players not to do it.

Bouncing the ball on the ground should be fine. What happens when the batsmen hits the ball and sometimes it gets bounced on the secondary pitch? I have seen 4-5 over old balls getting scuffed by concrete barriers when hit for 4s. That is all part of the play and should be ok.
The art of reverse swing is to keep one side of the ball as new (read shiny and dry as possible) and let the other side get worn up. If you had seen Wasim / Waqar bowl, the ball was dark red on one side and scuffed on the other. Usually Saqlain at mid on or mid off would take care of the ball.

Atherton had abrasive sand in his pocket LOL (which was also pre meditated)

Faf used his zipper (usually your trousers these days are made of knitwear and don't have zippers on pockets... I maybe wrong on that one. Old flannels never had zippers) goes to show pre meditation

Our pal Afridi just bit the ball mistaking it for an apple

 

[Aman]

Steve Smith and Bancroft were caught lying - It was sandpaper

On another breathless day in South Africa all three were found guilty by their board of misleading match officials during the third Test in Cape Town. Smith and Bancroft then lied to the media, claiming sticky-tape had been used to change the condition of the ball. In fact, it was sandpaper.

So for those saying its extreme, there's a justification why those bans are so extreme. Even after being caught they lied about what was used to try diffuse the situation.

 

[Convict]

He did and he got caught and rightly punished. is he or anyone in his team still doing it? if so, any proof?

He got a 50% match fee ban and no suspension for using his zipper on the ball.

 

[Send1983]

He got a 50% match fee ban and no suspension for using his zipper on the ball.

punishment is punishment. Yes SA should have suspended him at least for a few games, if not for an year like Aus.

is he still tampering with the ball using zipper or any external material? I don't think so. but the poster who I responded to, was saying that ball tampering is something common, to hide this cheating incident under the carpet.

 

[Mamba Red]

Tendulkar always manages to find the most boring way of saying things.

The cheat and liar talking about it like he's a saint.

 

[hur rizvi]

This is just too much. 1 year for ball tempering is way OTT

 

[Rana]

Tendulkar always manages to find the most boring way of saying things.

lol that's exactly what I was thinking. Proper image conscious guy

 

[IndianFan2018]

The cheat and liar talking about it like he's a saint.

Hold on bro ...why so much emotion on great man !

 

[IndianFan2018]

Update: Sponsoror Megellan snaps ties with CA

 

[Hasan123]

there is a big difference in bringing external material to the field to change the condition of the ball and throwing the ball on the ground.

Both are still seen as ball tampering by umpires though LOL.

 

[Hasan123]

Bouncing the ball on the ground should be fine. What happens when the batsmen hits the ball and sometimes it gets bounced on the secondary pitch? I have 4-5 over old balls getting coffed by concrete barriers when hit for 4s. That is all part of the play and should be ok.
The art of reverse swing is to keep one side of the ball as new (read shiny and dry as possible) and let the other side get worn up. If you had seen Wasim / Waqar bowl, the ball was dark red on one side and scuffed on the other. Usually Saqlain at mid on or mid off would take care of the ball.

Umpires are the ones who call fielders up for bouncing the ball on the ground before the keeper collects.

 

[Oligochaetes]

Appropriate punishments and as expected, Warner did not get punished any more severely than Smith, hence protecting some of the other players who definitely knew what was going on.

So much for the life bans people were talking about, lol.



No World Cup or Ashes for them because of what you mentioned, unless Australia struggle massively over the next 12 months.

Can Smith appeal? Does he hae any grounds for appeal as he has already admitted to tampering.

Warner on the other hand has admitted nothing. He will surely fight

 

[WildSwing]

Absolutely fantastic decision by cricket australia.

 

[HARKS]

Mark my words both Warner and smith will reappear and play after 6months since next test assignment for them should be in October, it's all drama to create public sympathy which I can see already in process, the trio will not lose much, whatever significant loss is to ACB when their TV broadcast deal will come they going to lose in millions, sponsors and broadcasters are going to take full advantage of it

 

[HARKS]

Trio will simply reappeal the ban and reduce it

 

[Send1983]

Both are still seen as ball tampering by umpires though LOL.

So ICC would have banned if Bancroft had thrown the ball on the ground? Smith and Warner would have been banned for a year for asking Bankcroft to throw the ball on the ground?

Max umpire would have warned. You are equating that with something serious like bringing in sandpaper or bottle cap to tamper with the ball.

 

[Hasan123]

So ICC would have banned if Bancroft had thrown the ball on the ground? Smith and Warner would have been banned for a year for asking Bankcroft to throw the ball on the ground?

Max umpire would have warned. You are equating that with something serious like bringing in sandpaper or bottle cap to tamper with the ball.

I'm not equating it. I'm just say it's seen as ball tampering by umpires. All teams take part in that so it's proof of teams ball tampering.

 

[Send1983]

I'm not equating it. I'm just say it's seen as ball tampering by umpires. All teams take part in that so it's proof of teams ball tampering.

If both are not same why did you have to bring that here to hide this cheating incident under the carpet? I see this mainly from Pakistani fans that ball tampering is nothing bad and ICC should legLize, everyone is doing this, etc.

 

[Varun]

Are Steve Smith and David Warner paying for last year's revolt against CA?

NEW DELHI: Former India opener Gautam Gambhir on Thursday termed sanctions imposed on Steve Smith and David Warner "harsh" and raised questions over whether the errant duo paid the price for revolting against Cricket Australia on the pay hike issue.

Smith and Warner have been handed a one year ban by Cricket Australia with rookie Cameron Bancroft getting a nine-month suspension for their involvement in ball tampering against South Africa in Cape Town.

However, Delhi Daredevils captain Gambhir felt that Smith and Warner being the primary voices during the senior team's pay hike dispute with the establishment might have played a role in their ouster.

"While cricket needs to be corruption-free but feel sanctions on Aussies bit harsh. Are @stevesmith49 & @davidwarner31 paying for revolt for pay hike? History has it administrators deride those who standup for players' cause. Classic case: Ian Chappell," Gambhir wrote on his official twitter page.

Gambhir urged the Australian media and the general public to spare a thought for the families of the players.

"Feel sorry for @stevesmith49 dad (in pic) other family members. Hope media n Aussie public go easy on them as families can be soft targets. More than d ban living wid this feeling of being called a cheat is a bigger punishment," the veteran left-hander wrote in a series of tweets.

Gambhir urged the Australian media and the general public to spare a thought for the families of the players.

"Feel sorry for @stevesmith49 dad (in pic) other family members. Hope media n Aussie public go easy on them as families can be soft targets. More than d ban living wid this feeling of being called a cheat is a bigger punishment," the veteran left-hander wrote in a series of tweets.

"I may be getting emotional but @stevesmith49 doesn't look to me a cheat. Don't know about u but I see in him a desperate leader trying to win a Test match for his country, his team. Yes, indeed, his methods were questionable but let's not label him corrupt," he wrote.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com...ay-hike-asks-gambhir/articleshow/63536942.cms

Interesting point of view from Gambhir:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">While cricket needs to be corruption-free but feel sanctions on Aussies bit harsh. Are <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@davidwarner31</a> paying for revolt for pay hike? History has it administrators deride those who standup for players’ cause. Classic case: Ian Chappell <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallTampering?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallTampering</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StevenSmith?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StevenSmith</a></p>— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/979353660730888193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">I may be getting emotional but <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> doesn’t look to me a cheat. Don’t know about u but I see in him a desperate leader trying to win a Test match for his country, his team. Yes, indeed, his methods were questionable but let’s not label him corrupt <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallTamperingScandal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallTamperingScandal</a> <a href="https://t.co/xOxAM45QXM">pic.twitter.com/xOxAM45QXM</a></p>— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/979361080857235456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Feel sorry for <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> dad (in pic) other family members. Hope media n Aussie public go easy on them as families can be soft targets. More than d ban living wid this feeling of being called a cheat is a bigger punishment. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallTamperingRow?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallTamperingRow</a> <a href="https://t.co/L2sV8BgWAH">pic.twitter.com/L2sV8BgWAH</a></p>— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/979355965660303360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Hasan123]

If both are not same why did you have to bring that here to hide this cheating incident under the carpet? I see this mainly from Pakistani fans that ball tampering is nothing bad and ICC should legLize, everyone is doing this, etc.

The cheating is bad I'm not denying that. But other nations like South Africa acting houlier than though isn't nice to see.

 

[cric_man]

Umpires are the ones who call fielders up for bouncing the ball on the ground before the keeper collects.

So If you are playing on a ground with a pretty brown square (surrounding pitches) and the batsmen tonks couple of cracking drives with ball bouncing off the square and scuffing it, that is similar to a fielder bouncing it. When you bounce the ball , for the most part, you cannot predict which side the ball will bounce. The whole idea of reverse swing is to keep one side as close to new condition and let the other side wear out.

 

[Slog]

Gambhir thinks CA maybe punishing Smith and Warner got pay hike revolt!

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">While cricket needs to be corruption-free but feel sanctions on Aussies bit harsh. Are <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@davidwarner31</a> paying for revolt for pay hike? History has it administrators deride those who standup for players’ cause. Classic case: Ian Chappell <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallTampering?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallTampering</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StevenSmith?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StevenSmith</a></p>— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/979353660730888193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[shaz619]

Excellent point by Gambir to be fair, what if this was an act of revenge the kangaroo may have just been waiting to jump out the closet

 

[troodon]

I feel the punishment is too harsh from CA.

Whether is Zipper or Sandpaper or Bottlecap, the culprits should be reprimanded by docking match fees and some extra fine and the match should be awarded to the opposition right away.

Steve Smith looks exactly like his dad.

 

[shaz619]

I feel the punishment is too harsh from CA.

Whether is Zipper or Sandpaper or Bottlecap, the culprits should be reprimanded by docking match fees and some extra fine and the match should be awarded to the opposition right away.

Steve Smith looks exactly like his dad.

It is harsh but maybe this is what the game needs to stop such instances in the future

 

[Aman]

I feel the punishment is too harsh from CA.

Whether is Zipper or Sandpaper or Bottlecap, the culprits should be reprimanded by docking match fees and some extra fine and the match should be awarded to the opposition right away.

Steve Smith looks exactly like his dad.

It's more than fair, you have not seen the outrage in Aus. Most Aussies think it's a fair punishment and Smith can actually be considered for captaincy after 2 years. It's nowhere as harsh as people think it is.

 

[Aman]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">While cricket needs to be corruption-free but feel sanctions on Aussies bit harsh. Are <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> & <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@davidwarner31</a> paying for revolt for pay hike? History has it administrators deride those who standup for players’ cause. Classic case: Ian Chappell <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallTampering?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallTampering</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/StevenSmith?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#StevenSmith</a></p>— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) <a href="https://twitter.com/GautamGambhir/status/979353660730888193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Or just maybe they let the country down and damaged the reputation of a team Aussies hold so dead

I wonder which is more likely.

 

[troodon]

It's more than fair, you have not seen the outrage in Aus.

Just because there is outrage in Aus by cricket supporters does not mean the players need to be punished severely.

A 5 Test ban and some hefty fine along with the Test being awarded to SA irrespective of how the match unfolds would have sent a strong message.

 

[Aman]

Just because there is outrage in Aus by cricket supporters does not mean the players need to be punished severely.

A 5 Test ban and some hefty fine along with the Test being awarded to SA irrespective of how the match unfolds would have sent a strong message.

They lied to the ICC and the media after they were caught red handed. No one but themselves to blame here.

Smith got off lightly as he can still become captain one day. 6 months and never holding a leadership role in Australia again is a lot worse than a 1 year ban and 2 year suspension from captaincy.

 

[Deewana]

They lied to the ICC and the media after they were caught red handed. No one but themselves to blame here.

Smith got off lightly as he can still become captain one day. 6 months and never holding a leadership role in Australia again is a lot worse than a 1 year ban and 2 year suspension from captaincy.

Doubt he will captain Australia again

 

[Aman]

Doubt he will captain Australia again

If public sentiment changes on him, he can.

 

[troodon]

They lied to the ICC and the media after they were caught red handed. No one but themselves to blame here.

Smith got off lightly as he can still become captain one day. 6 months and never holding a leadership role in Australia again is a lot worse than a 1 year ban and 2 year suspension from captaincy.

Not saying they need to let go scot free. They should have been punished. But not this severely.

If CA has waited for a month to take the decision, then the same public would have forgotten the incident and a lighter punishment would have been welcomed by the same people.

 

[Aman]

Just because there is outrage in Aus by cricket supporters does not mean the players need to be punished severely.

A 5 Test ban and some hefty fine along with the Test being awarded to SA irrespective of how the match unfolds would have sent a strong message.

Of course they do, do you think Aussies want to support cheats? The typical Aussie fans thinks its other teams that cheat, the realization that they're the top heels in cricket and the biggest cheats in the game hurt them. Then from the CA POV theirs the TV rights deal coming up and sponsors wanting to see some action being taken.

 

[CricFan2012]

No doubt it possibly crossed their minds

 

[Mamba Red]

All the companies that have ended sponsorship deals following Cricket Australia's ball-tampering deb

Australian cricket and individual players have lost millions in recent days over the ball-tampering.

Australian captain Steve Smith, co-captain David Warner, and batsman Cameron Bancroft were found guilty of attempting to change the condition of the ball during the third Test against Cape Town in South Africa last week.

Smith and Warner have been banned from playing for Australia or at state level for 12 months. Bancroft got a nine-month suspension.

Celebrity agent Max Markson believes Smith and Warner will be dumped by all their sponsors. He told the ABC that sponsorship contracts tend to contain a "morals clause", and "cheating" would see them fall foul of that.

The fallout since the revelations has seen a number of major companies end their sponsorship deals.

Here are the companies on that list.

Magellan Financial Group

Magellan was just one year into its contract as naming rights sponsor of domestic Test matches involving the Australian men’s cricket team.

The deal was reportedly worth $20 million over three years.

Asics

Asics is terminating its individual contracts with the players involved.

“The decisions and actions taken by David Warner and Cameron Bancroft are not something that Asics tolerates and are contrary to the values the company stands for,” it said.

LG Australia

LG Australia also ended its contract with Warner, saying it would “always look to work with ambassadors that share our core brand values”.

Sanitarium

Sanitarium ended its relationship with Smith as a Weet-Bix brand ambassador, saying: "Weet-Bix ambassadors represent our brand values of trust and integrity ... Based on the ball tampering incident and the findings of Cricket Australia’s investigation, we are unable to continue our relationship with Steve Smith."

Another major sponsor, Qantas is yet to make any changes to its deal with Cricket Australia, although CEO Alan Joyce has demanded the issue be addressed immediately.

According to The Australian, Joyce told officials of the sport's body: “You need to address this and you need to address this now and you need to do the right thing".

While he acknowledged earlier in the week that the company was not at the point of reconsidering its sponsorship deal, he acknowledged Qantas executives were “extremely disappointed" with the players’ behaviour.

"I came to Australia 22 years ago Australia, they know the significance of a fair go, being sportsmen and sportsmanlike, it (the ball tampering scandal) has damaged our reputation worldwide," Joyce said.

"We need Cricket Australia to make a statement that this is not acceptable because the rest of the world figures that’s the case."

Some of the other sponsors of Cricket Australia include CBA, JLT, XXXX Gold, Optus, Toyota, KFC, Bupa, and Gatorade.

https://www.msn.com/en-au/money/per...-tampering-debacle/ar-AAve0ZH?ocid=spartanntp

 

[shaz619]

Found this bit hilarious:

"Weet-Bix ambassadors represent our brand values of trust and integrity ... Based on the ball tampering incident and the findings of Cricket Australia’s investigation, we are unable to continue our relationship with Steve Smith."

)

 

[shaz619]

Anyway I suppose the punishment makes sense especially with this type of response which hurts CSA in the pocket as well, maybe when things cool down a bit the players can return and after an appeal the bans should also be reduced hopefully if they make a sad face in the court room and show some remorse

 

[Convict]

Not saying they need to let go scot free. They should have been punished. But not this severely.

If CA has waited for a month to take the decision, then the same public would have forgotten the incident and a lighter punishment would have been welcomed by the same people.

If CA had waited a month the pressure would have grown massively and they would have lost all their sponsors.

 

[rhony]

As Arthur indicated, Aussies are used to looking down on other teams. Hard but fair was their mantra for generations. Mental disintegration without crossing the line was their strategy.
It all fell flat with this episode. To claim the righteous posture, they had to go hard on the players to the point that the crooks garner sympathy instead of hatred. They have succeeded.

 

[rhony]

They also made sure if Australia doesn't get to tamper, no one else can either by setting a precedence here. I'm more curious with the attitude of Aussie teams of the future. Are they going to be wimps considering their team has been mentally and physically disintegrated by De Kock of all people.

 

[Mr.Q]

I think that is understood. It is like filing a law suit for ridiculous amount as compensation and then settling for a more fair amount. The appeal will also take some time and will allow both the media and the public to cool down and take this for what it is.. something every team has been doing and some of the legends are legends because of this.. This practice need to be taken out of the game but not by making two players scapegoats..

At the same time the punishment that the ICC has for this offense is a joke. The punishment should be 3 months out of the game for first offense and grow exponentially after that. If someone does it third time they need to be eased out of the professional cricket. Some of the legends of the game have set a bad example for these bowlers. We don't even know who bowled their heart out and who cheated their way to celebrity status

I agree. Things will continue this way as long as the decision is left entirely to the boards. It’s clear that the ICC laws regarding this are intended to leave the decision to the boards under the impression that the concerned board would always be in a better position to investigate the matter and decide on the punishment.

But the reality is that there won’t be any uniformity or consistency in the decisions taken by these boards and external factors often play a huge role. I’m someone who believes that public outrage and the statements made by prominent personalities including their prime minister put immense pressure on CA and influenced their decision on the punishment.

 

[WC-Passion]

I'm not surprised with this, the CA didn't seem to have the best of relations with Smith and, especially Warner after the whole pay revolt situation. The pressure from the fans, media and even the PM clearly was a factor, not to mention the sponsors (who always love to threaten teams, boards and players to get their way).

This has been a massive hit for the Aussies, bigger than it would've been (arguably) for any other country. This scandal would not have gotten this much attention if wasn't for the pride these guys have.

 

[Chrish]

[MENTION=132373]Convict[/MENTION] , any chance of Smith playing 3 games in UAE next March if he decides to come back?

 

[MenInG]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Legend Speaks !! <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@davidwarner31</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/darren_lehmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@darren_lehmann</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CAComms?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CAComms</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CricketAus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SteveSmith?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SteveSmith</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DavidWarner?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DavidWarner</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DarrenLehmann?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DarrenLehmann</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallTempering?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallTempering</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketAustralia?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketAustralia</a> <a href="https://t.co/AscyhQmGe2">pic.twitter.com/AscyhQmGe2</a></p>— Mohammad Yousaf (@yousaf1788) <a href="https://twitter.com/yousaf1788/status/979958473478860805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[angrypathan]

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-partner="tweetdeck"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Legend Speaks !! <a href="https://twitter.com/stevesmith49?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevesmith49</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/davidwarner31?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@davidwarner31</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/darren_lehmann?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@darren_lehmann</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CAComms?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CAComms</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CricketAus</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SteveSmith?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SteveSmith</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DavidWarner?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DavidWarner</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DarrenLehmann?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DarrenLehmann</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallTempering?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallTempering</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CricketAustralia?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CricketAustralia</a> <a href="https://t.co/AscyhQmGe2">pic.twitter.com/AscyhQmGe2</a></p>— Mohammad Yousaf (@yousaf1788) <a href="https://twitter.com/yousaf1788/status/979958473478860805?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Referring to himself as The Legend )

 

[BreadPakoda]

Referring to himself as The Legend )

Seriously, The Legend Speaks?

 

[Madplayer]

Referring to himself as The Legend )

Might be managed by someone else.
Still poor show given the fact that it has be presented as if it is yousuf who is handling the account himself.

 

[MenInG]

So the crying done - back to reality....

================

Australia’s three disgraced cricketers are expected to launch legal actions this week which will ensure the ball-tampering scandal continues to dominate the sport.

Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner have until the middle of the week to appeal their bans and are in talks with lawyers.

Warner looks set to take action, having said after a press conference in Sydney that he could not answer questions due to the ongoing legal process.

The Australian Cricketers’ Association has hit out at the disciplinary process and haste with which Cricket Australia took action as it faced pressure from the Australian public and the country’s Prime Minister during an unprecedented week for cricket. The ACA has also said the punishments are far heavier than ICC regulations for ball tampering.

Bancroft and Smith have not yet said whether they will appeal and are seeking advice before making a final decision.

Reports in Australia over the weekend claimed that Smith did not know of the details of the ball-tampering plan until he saw it unfold on the big screen at Newlands.


The Sydney Morning Herald reported Smith did not know how the plan would be carried out and expressed he did not like the idea but did nothing to stop it. It was also revealed that Bancroft twice applied sandpaper to the ball, which the match officials decided at the time had not been damaged enough to change.

Warner pointedly refused to say whether he cheated for Australia before orchestrating the scandal that led to the disgrace and disbandment of his national team.

In a tearful first press conference since being suspended for 12 months and barred from any future leadership role with his country, the former vice-captain repeatedly dodged questions about his precise role in ‘Sandpaper-gate’ and about who else, if anybody, was involved.

If Cricket Australia (CA) had hoped that Warner’s comments would bring a close to a calamitous week, after emotional mea culpas by his fellow conspirators Smith and Bancroft, they were gravely mistaken.


While he was clearly distraught, accepting in a statement that he had made a choice that he would “regret for as long as I live”, his subsequent question-and-answer session became a study in evasion, as Warner resorted time and again to a pre-prepared line that he was “here to take responsibility for my actions on day three at Newlands”.

Warner broke down repeatedly as he accepted that, in all likelihood, he would never represent Australia again. The opening batsman has received the harshest verdict of the three players implicated, with CA ruling that he was guilty of manipulating a junior player, in Bancroft, and that he even demonstrated to his team-mate how to scuff up the ball with sandpaper. This disclosure has prompted much speculation about whether he had tampered in previous matches, but Warner neglected on several occasions to clarify, adding to concerns around the culture of the Australian side.

In a tightly stage-managed press call at the headquarters of Cricket New South Wales, with his wife Candice front and centre, Warner said: “In the back of my mind, I suppose there is a tiny ray of hope that I may one day be given the privilege of playing for my country – but I am resigned to the fact that this may never happen.”

Warner appeared uneasy when pressed on whether the abuse earlier in the tour of Candice, both by South African crowds and allegedly by opponent Quinton de Kock, had contributed to his decision to cheat. “It’s tough for me to talk about where my thoughts were on that day, given the previous circumstances in Durban,” he replied. The 31-year-old wept, too, on the subject of whether he would now retire, saying only that he would discuss it with his family.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket...e-disgraced-cricketers-expected-launch-legal/

 

[LastManstanding]

Cricket Australia, ICC are culprits in letting the game slip away : Ian Chappell

In some quarters there’s an outcry that the punishment meted out to Steve Smith and David Warner doesn’t fit the crime.

According to the code of conduct that would appear to be the case, with ball tampering reading like a lesser crime than some others. However, such has been the outcry against this act of cheating that Cricket Australia (CA) has done the culprits a favour.

Their appearance in Australian colours next summer would have resulted in the fans venting their anger, which wouldn’t have done their confidence or rehabilitation process much good. It also wouldn’t have done anything for CA’s image to have two of their former leaders badgered by the home crowd.

Australia’s reaction to the poor judgement of Smith, Warner and Cameron Bancroft may appear excessive but it’s fuelled by a few different factors.

Firstly, Australia’s expectations when it comes to sport, especially cricket; the public demand high standards and this has resulted in the country having an exceptional record on the sporting field.

There is also this unrealistic belief that Australian cricketers are above the under-handed tactics the public perceive some other countries stoop to in order to win. This image was shattered in Cape Town.

Then there’s the issue of the acrimonious dispute between the Australian players and CA over the most recent MoU. In many quarters, this was perceived as a group of millionaires holding out for even more money. The fact that Warner was one of the more voluble players in that dispute and is now perceived as the ring leader in the tampering incident, would have added fuel to fire.

While the players have been punished both cricket-wise and financially and coach Darren Lehmann has taken the proper course of action and stood down, it’s to be hoped they’re not the only ones who pay a hefty price.

The CA and ICC have to accept some of the blame for the fact that cricketing behaviour worldwide has plummeted to these depths. They have consistently failed to halt the slide in on-field behaviour that has increasingly undermined the game’s image.

Then, there’s the reaction of BCCI. Smith and Warner have not only relinquished their leadership roles in IPL, they’ve been banned by BCCI from the 2018 version. Whilst this is a severe hit to their bank balance, it may also be sparing them the wrath of the Indian public.

It’s also a welcome occurrence if it’s a sign that BCCI is cracking down on bad behaviour in its jurisdiction. Its governance in recent years has been less than inspiring and if the latest move represents a shift in attitude among administrators, then the Cape Town calamity won’t have been a complete black hole.

Cricket has been heading down a slippery slope for a while, to the point where the credibility of the game has been severely shaken. Strong leadership has been needed to correct this image but none has been forthcoming.

It’s the administrators who either stuff up or are slow to react and eventually the players suffer the consequences. Smith, Warner and Bancroft have suffered an immediate backlash but it will be the embarrassment that follows the stigma of cheating like an ever-present shadow that will cause lingering pain.

Let’s hope this instance of poor judgement proves to be a wake-up call for cricket overall and not just the three Australian players.

https://m.hindustantimes.com/cricke...ip-away/story-V979LmWdkTnO0bozTUeEOI_amp.html

 

[giri26]

CA confirms date of potential hearings

Cricket Australia is bracing for another week-and-a-half of uncertainty over the ball-tampering saga, with Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft all considering appeals ahead of an April 11 deadline.

CA has confirmed hearings over the level-three charges and/or sanctions issued to Smith, Warner and Bancroft will take place - if needed - on Wednesday week.

There remains a possibility the trio will cop their whack and CA will put a full stop to the saga, but Warner is understood to be particularly keen to put his case to an independent code-of-conduct commissioner.

Smith and Bancroft have also sought legal advice and are mulling the merits of challenging their bans, which were for 12 months and nine months respectively.

CA's code of conduct dictates that players can accept sanctions at any point "prior to the commencement of the hearing".

CA has made it clear its sanctions aren't for ball tampering, rather conduct "contrary to the spirit of the game", "unbecoming of a representative", that "could be harmful to the interests of cricket and/or ... brought the game of cricket into disrepute".

There is a sense among many in Australian cricket circles, including some members of the Test XI playing in Johannesburg, that the bans were too harsh given the International Cricket Council's maximum punishment for ball tampering is a one-Test ban.

There are concerns from the camps of Warner and Smith the star duo could miss out on lucrative national contracts for two years, meaning the effective punishment is more than what CA intended.

CA had finalised contracts for 2018-19 prior to the scandal but are now reshuffling the order, with captain Tim Paine set to earn a healthy pay rise upon his return to the list.

The CA code of conduct spells out that if a player disputes either a charge or sanction then there will be a hearing before a CA commissioner.

If players are unhappy with the verdict at the initial hearing, they have seven days to lodge a formal appeal and take the case to an appeals commissioner.

"If they do take that to appeal, that's a good, proper legal process," CA chief executive James Sutherland said last week.

"As a course of natural justice under our code, players have the right."

Sutherland said a range of penalties, including some more and less severe, were discussed by CA's board.

CA's code of conduct notes that "any decision made by the appeals commissioner ... shall be the full, final and complete disposition of the matter and will be binding on all parties".

https://www.cricket.com.au/news/cri...smith-david-warner-bancroft-appeal/2018-04-02

 

[AssassinatedDevil]

ACA says trio's bans 'disproportionate'

Australian Cricketers' Association president Greg Dyer has labelled the penalties handed down to three players involved in the ball-tampering controversy "disproportionate" and called for an independent review already announced into team culture to be significantly broadened.

At a media conference in Sydney today, Dyer said the ACA was providing "strong support" to banned trio Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft as they consider whether to contest their year-long (Smith and Warner) and nine-month (Bancroft) suspensions.

But he added that any such decision would be up to the discretion of the individual players, who have until Thursday to formally declare any intentions to challenge the penalties.

However, Dyer did claim that the sanctions imposed – which also prevent Smith from holding a leadership role within a national team for two years while Warner cannot ever return to such a position – were "disproportionate relative to precedent".

His assertion was supported by a fact sheet prepared by the ACA which listed previous cases of ball tampering prosecuted by the ICC over past decades, and he noted the most punitive of those were a suspension of two ODI matches and a financial impost of a player's entire match fee.

When details of Australia's plot to alter the condition of the ball during last week's third Test against in South Africa in Cape Town were revealed, ICC match referee Andy Pycroft imposed a one-Test ban on Smith and fined him 100 per cent of his match fee for his involvement.

Bancroft was fined 75 per cent of his match payment, and no charge was laid against Warner with the ICC confirming to cricket.com.au last week that responsibility beyond direct involvement in such incidents begins and ends with the team captain.

An investigation by CA's Senior Legal Counsel and Head of Integrity, Iain Roy, in the days following that ruling uncovered further details and inconsistencies among the information provided by Smith and Bancroft at a media conference during the Test.

Including the fact that the premediated plan involved the use of sandpaper, not adhesive tape as was initially claimed.

CA then chose to charge the trio under article 2.3.5 of their Code of Conduct, which refers to behavior deemed contrary to the spirit of the game, unbecoming of a CA representative or official, harmful (or potentially) to the interests of cricket and/or that brings the game into disrepute.

Under the CA Code, charges proved under article 2.3.5 – defined in the charter as "a 'catch-all' provision to cover all types of misconduct of a very serious nature' – can carry penalties ranging from the imposition of one suspension point up to a lifetime ban.

The section of the Code that deals specifically with charges of altering the condition of the ball in breach of the game's laws (also a level two offence, along with article 2.3.5) allows for the imposition of a fine from 50-100 per cent of a player's match fee and up to two suspension points.

"Changing the condition of the ball is a key element of the charge, it's against the code of cricket and there is no place for it," Dyer said today.

"What is in the spirit of the game is clearly important and relevant, and so Cricket Australia's motivation is correct.

"(But) the informed conclusion is that as right as the motivation is, the proposed penalties are disproportionate relative to precedent.

"The ACA asks Cricket Australia, in its final deliberation, to consider all of these factors.

"We ask that consideration be given to re-calibrating the proposed sanctions, to consider options such as suspending or reducing part of the sanctions.

"To consider, for example, to allow the players to return to domestic cricket earlier and as an important part of their rehabilitation."

Players charged under the Code have the option to admit the offence and accept the sanction, admit the offence but challenge the penalty imposed, or deny the alleged wrongdoing.

Under the two latter scenarios, a hearing before an independent commissioner is then convened with the evidence tendered kept private unless the commissioner agrees otherwise, and employing as little formality and technicality as the process will permit.

While Dyer's call for CA to consider mitigating factors - including the "extraordinary" contrition shown by the three players and the duress they were under at the time - when making "its final deliberation" suggests the initial sanctions will be challenged, he reiterated that was a matter for the players involved.

"I think their decisions are imminent, but I am not able to share them with you," he said today.

"That's a deeply personal decision for the players.

"I don't want to guide them in any way through this process, though we are supporting them."

Following CA's announcement last week that an independent review into the conduct and culture of Australia's men's team would be undertaken (with details to be announced shortly), Dyer called for a wider investigation into the current culture of the game at all levels.

He said that review should seek input from governments, state associations, grade clubs, junior cricket organisations and the broader community as well past and present players and sponsors, with the independently appointed reviewer(s) to report back to a joint CA-ACA panel by 1 October this year.

"I can assure the public that the players will play their part in the improvement of the culture of the sport," Dyer said.

"As partners in the game, that is part of their role and responsibility."

However, former Test batter and current national selector Mark Waugh claimed today that he did not view the culture of the current Australia men's outfit as "different to any team from any previous eras".

Waugh - who played 40 of his 128 Tests for Australia under the captaincy of his twin brother, Steve, who last week wrote that some current members of the team had "failed our (Test cricket) culture" – said the banned trio had made a one-off mistake for which they had paid a hefty price.

"These guys, they're good guys, they've got good morals on and off the field." Mark Waugh told Sydney's Sky Sports radio today.

"I've listened to a lot of stuff since the saga about a bad culture in Australian cricket, I just don't' see that.

"Of course there's the odd individual player who pushed the boundaries and that's always going to happen, that always has happened but to then say there's a whole toxic culture in Australian cricket, I'm just not seeing that.

"I've been on tour with these guys, Test match series in India (last year) and the T20 tour in New Zealand (last February) and I haven't seen that.

"People are drawing a long bow there saying the whole Australian cricket culture is toxic.

"I don't think there's any difference between this team and any other Australian team.

"In fact most of this team are so quiet on the field.

"There are not too many players who are up … and in your face."

https://www.cricket.com.au/news/gre...ring-bans-smith-warner-bancroft-ca/2018-04-03

 

[Oligochaetes]

Yup, they will appeal, their bans will be shortened and they will play cricket again this year. the Australian public will have forgotten their anger and all will be forgiven.

 

[jagatk]

So their contrition was so great that CA needs to rethink it's punishment, may be it's just me but normally people who show remorse or contrition don't ask for clemency by proxy as these 3 seem to be doing.

 

[Varun]

I see the wheels are in motion for their return already.

 

[MenInG]

Cricket Australia has provided the following update in relation to charges against article 2.3.5 of the CA Code of Conduct against Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner.

Smith, Bancroft and Warner have officially advised Cricket Australia they have accepted the charges and sanctions, and no hearings will be required.

Speaking on the matter, Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland said:

“The events of Cape Town have severely affected the game.

“It has also been humbling to be reminded of the passion all Australians have for our great game.

“These are significant penalties for professional cricketers. They were not imposed lightly.

“We know the players will return to playing the game they love, and in doing so, we hope they rebuild their careers and regain the trust of fans,” concluded Mr Sutherland.

 

[MenInG]

The events that unfolded in Cape Town during the third Test shocked everyone. Not just those of us in cricket, not just the fans, but the entire Australian community.

Our investigation concluded that three players were involved. Last Wednesday we announced proposed sanctions against those players. As announced yesterday, all have now accepted the sanctions, without appeal.

Last week we also flagged an independent review to examine the wider context of this event.

Today I announce that the review will have a broad remit and will consider whether any wider cultural, organisational and/or governance issues should be addressed.

Cricket Australia is currently seeking advice from a wide range of qualified individuals, firms, sporting and other organisations who may have conducted similar reviews, or have relevant experience with these sorts of issues.

The Board is committed to the review being completed as expeditiously as possible, but we are also committed to getting it right. We will therefore take whatever time is necessary to ensure we fully understand the expertise required to conduct such a review, and the procedures it should follow. Further details will be announced as soon as possible once we have worked carefully through this process.

The review will provide recommendations to the Board of Cricket Australia.

Australian cricketers are role models for our young people and ambassadors for our country. Cricket fans and the Australian public rightly have high expectations regarding the standards of behaviour of our national teams.

The independent review will provide an important foundation for ensuring these expectations are met.

In addition, Cricket Australia will initiate a separate player (and former player) driven process to consider a “charter” that sets out standards of behaviour and expectations of Australian men’s teams. It is anticipated that this process will include assessments as to whether changes to codes and standards governing player conduct are required.

The outcomes from this process will form reference points for the independent review.

I am pleased to announce that Rick McCosker has agreed to act as chair.

Rick will advise on the most appropriate procedures to guide his work, however it is currently envisaged that he will invite two former players and two current players to join him on a panel.

More details will be announced following further consultations with Rick over coming days.

I am also pleased to announce that Peter Collins, Director of the Centre for Ethical Leadership and a consultant on ethics, leadership and organisational change has agreed to act as a facilitator for the process. Peter’s biography can be viewed here.

As I indicated in our statement last week, we understand and share the disappointment of fans and the broader Australian community about these events.

The Board is determined to do all we can to prevent such events from ever happening again.

More details will be announced in due course, but I am confident that the important steps announced today will go a long way towards meeting this objective.

 

[UN talkz]

Dear Australian Cricket Fans,

I wish to update you on the actions Cricket Australia is continuing to take in response to the recent events in Cape Town. We recognise the concerns felt by all of you regarding this situation, so I wanted to share these updates with you directly.

Sanctions

As officially announced yesterday, Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner have accepted the charges and sanctions, so no hearings will be required.

These are significant penalties for professional cricketers, and they were not imposed lightly.

We know the players will return to playing the game they love, and in doing so, we are hopeful they will rebuild their careers and regain the trust of you, our fans.

Independent Review

Last week we flagged an independent review to examine the wider context of this event as an important step towards restoring pride in Australian cricket.

The review will examine if any cultural, organisational and/or governance issues should be addressed within Cricket Australia, not exclusive to the Australian men’s teams.

We are currently seeking advice from a wide range of qualified individuals, firms, sporting and other organisations who may have conducted similar reviews, or have relevant experience with these sorts of issues.

We want the review to be completed as quickly as possible, but we are also committed to getting it right. We will take whatever time is necessary to ensure we fully understand the expertise required to conduct such a review, and the procedures it should follow. I’ll share the details with you once we have worked carefully through this process.

We are strongly committed to a culture of inclusivity, supportiveness, accountability, respect, integrity and doing what’s best for cricket, and you, the fans.

Consideration of a player charter

In addition to the independent review, Cricket Australia will initiate a separate player (and former player) driven process to consider a “charter” that sets out standards of behaviour and expectations of Australian men’s teams.

The outcomes from this process will form reference points for the independent review.

Further details will be announced shortly and we will keep you updated on this process as it progresses.

Our focus is on doing all we can to prevent such events from ever happening again, and rebuilding the trust of the cricket community.

I would like to take the opportunity once again to express our gratitude to the Australian public for all the feedback we have received. We have read all your passionate responses and recognise your concerns. Unfortunately, we cannot respond to all your submissions, but I can assure you we will continue to do everything possible to restore your faith in the game and address your feedback.

Best regards

James

 

[MenInG]

New Delhi - Australian spin legend Shane Warne has accused the country's rivals of unfairly using the Test ball-tampering controversy to kick the team when it is down.

Warne, advisor to Indian Premier League side the Rajasthan Royals, said the cheating scandal should be used as an opportunity for other cricket teams to reflect on their own conduct.

"It is very disappointing but I feel that this has given an opportunity to others to slam (the) boot into Australians without any reason," Warne was quoted as saying by the Press Trust of India news agency.

The 48-year-old said he would not defend the conduct of cricketers Steve Smith and David Warner, who have been removed from their leadership positions on the Australian team, and that he was "embarrassed" as any other Australian over the affair.

"(But) anyone who has been beaten by Australia, who don't like the way the Australians play the game or they don't like any individual in any country have taken the opportunity to take boots into the Australians," he said in Jaipur.

"I think it is a great opportunity for every single country look into its own backyards and think (about) the way they want to play cricket."

Smith and Warner have each been banned for a year by Australia and the IPL, keeping them out of contention for the Indian tournament, which starts this weekend.

Smith was slated to captain the Royals, who Warne led to the IPL title in 2008 during the competition's inaugural season.

Warner was to have been captain at Sunrisers Hyderabad and led them to the title in 2016.

https://www.sport24.co.za/Cricket/P...oot-into-aussies-over-cheating-warne-20180406

 

[IndianFan2018]

FYI, No other team got caught systematically cheating like AUS (SandpaperGate and DressingRoomReview), so no preaching needed from you MATE

 

[MenInG]

CRICKET Australia (CA) director and former Australia skipper Mark Taylor has backed Steve Smith to return to the national captaincy after the ban on his leadership ends.

Smith returned home to Australia this week from a trip to the United States, and declared he was ready to get back to business after accepting his 12-month playing suspension as a result of his part in the ball-tampering scandal.

Smith is free to return to the Australian set up for next year’s World Cup and Ashes in England, but cannot fill a leadership position again until the end of March 2019.

Taylor, who was this weekend floated as a potential future chairman of the CA board, said he expected Smith to be captain again.

“I still think Steve Smith can captain Australia,” Taylor told the Nine Network’s Sports Sunday, when asked who the long-term captain should be. “Steve Smith to me, and everyone wants to label people, is not a cheat. Steve Smith was guilty of negligence in my opinion.

“He saw something going on and he didn’t stamp it out. That’s a mistake of negligence.

“He’s not a cheat, he’s a very good person.

“And to me that’s the biggest damage that’s happened over the past few months.” Taylor’s position on Smith could prove crucial in the future, given the CA board must rubberstamp any captaincy appointments.

'I was living in a bubble'

The issue of leadership will again come to the fore this week, with Australia’s squad for the one-day series in England expected to be announced. Tim Paine, 33, has been confirmed as the ongoing leader of the Test team but it is unclear if he will lead the limited-overs team after fellow wicketkeeper Alex Carey was also handed a CA contract last month.

If Paine isn’t selected, 31-year-old Aaron Finch would be the likely be the frontrunner given he has previously led the ODI and T20 sides. Meanwhile, at age 28, Smith could still has the best part of his career ahead of him for Australia.

The world’s No. 1 ranked batsman is expected to ply his trade for Sydney grade club Sutherland this summer with a ban on domestic cricket still hanging over his head.

Recently-appointed Australia coach Justin Langer indicated this week he would welcome Smith, as well as fellow-banned players David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, back into the national team.

And Taylor, who led Australia in 50 Tests, was of the belief it would eventually help Smith’s leadership.

“I think if he ever does come back and captain Australia it will make him a better captain,” Taylor said.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/sport/c...m/news-story/783c1a90621d04760fd5577b0a7e7bdb

 

[giri26]

Banned duo weigh up returns in Top End

Northern Territory officials hopeful of suspended Test openers featuring in the Strike League competition in July

Banned batsmen Cameron Bancroft and David Warner could make returns to competitive cricket as early as July, with the Test openers separately considering winter playing stints in the Northern Territory. It's understood Bancroft is weighing up a comeback in the Top End which NT administrators hope would see him play in the second edition of the Strike League in July.

The Western Australian could also feature in Darwin's main club competition. While Bancroft appears the closer of the two batsmen to being locked in, NT Cricket chief executive Joel Morrison confirmed they've also had discussions with Warner to play in "Northern Territory's version of the Big Bash".

Cricket Australia's sanctions for Bancroft, Warner and Steve Smith for their part in the Cape Town ball-tampering incident in March prevent them from playing international and Australian domestic cricket, but do permit them to play club cricket.

A short spell in the country's northernmost capital city would give Bancroft and/or Warner vital match-practice during their respective nine- and 12-month suspensions from the Newlands incident, which has seen both players lose overseas playing contracts.

Despite CA's sanctions allowing the players to feature in overseas domestic leagues, Warner's multi-million-dollar Indian Premier League deal was cancelled, as was Bancroft's contract with English county side Somerset.

Warner hosted a clinic in Darwin over the weekend ahead of a trip to Arnhem Land and was spotted at local side Tracy Village's ground on Saturday casting an eye over former NSW teammate Jake Doran, who is playing for the club and who’s also set to be involved in the Strike League in July.

Morrison said the league, which features both T20 and 50-over games, could provide the perfect vehicle for the suspended Test players to begin their returns to top-flight cricket.

"Once the sanctions were handed down by Cricket Australia and the dust had settled, I reached out to Cricket Australia and then the players' managers to give them the opportunity to play some cricket over the winter," Morrison told cricket.com.au on Monday.

"One of the great advantages we have up here is that we have a winter competition which provides playing opportunities year-round.

"We offered them the opportunity to help them get back and play … if they wanted to pick up the bat sooner rather than later.

"The opportunity to have the likes of David Warner or Cameron Bancroft, if they're available and willing to play, would be fantastic for us.

"It's very rare that young players from the Northern Territory get exposed to players like that."

https://www.cricket.com.au/news/cam...eague-ball-tampering-bans/2018-05-07?mode=amp

 

[Corridor of Uncertainty]

Cameron Bancroft: Banned Australia batsman cleared to play club cricket

Australia batsman Cameron Bancroft has been cleared to play club cricket while serving a ban for ball-tampering.

Bancroft was banned for nine months by Cricket Australia (CA) for using sandpaper on the ball during a Test against South Africa in March.

The 23-year-old has been given special dispensation to play for Willetton in Western Australia.

Then-skipper Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner were also given year-long bans over the incident.

Under Western Australia Premier Cricket rules, any ban by CA applies to club cricket.

The 16 Western Australia clubs voted to allow Bancroft to play at a meeting on Monday.

Warner and Smith are also free to play with their club sides in New South Wales - who do not automatically enforce bans by CA.

https://www.bbc.com/sport/cricket/44110082

What's with the "special dispensation?" Thought Australia were tough on cheating?