Cricket Australia Ball-tampering controversy Live: Steve Smith-led Australia tampered with the ball in third Test. (Source: AP)
Australian cricket has plunged into crisis after skipper Steve Smith and opener Cameron Bancroft admitted to ball-tampering on the third day of the third Test against South Africa. To make things murkier for the Smith and entire board, senior players were at the forefront in planning the events with opening batsman Bancroft sneaking in yellow tape and sandpaper to rough up the ball. In the aftermath, Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner were asked to step down. ICC has already banned Smith for one Test and fined him and Bancroft both. The ramifications have continued on the upcoming IPL as well with Ajinkya Rahane replacing Smith as the Rajasthan Royals skipper. Decision by Cricket Australia following investigation and interviewing of the players could well impact Smith and Warner’s involvement in the IPL as well.
Cricket Australia Ball-tampering controversy Live Updates:
Why is the Australian public incensed about the ball-tampering controversy? Glenn Mitchell from Perth explains the mood Down Under - the press, the people and how former players have reacted to the controversy. "It’s one thing for David Warner to get into a sledging match, but to do something that is outright cheating, there’s no other way you can look at it. A lot of people have said they would rather see Australia lose than try to win by cheating. It’s totally hollow. "
Hello and Good Afternoon! We're covering each and every update that comes in with the ball-tampering controversy not blowing over - as it shouldn't. Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft are likely to learn their fate today after the completion of the investigation by the Integrity Unit chief. CA chief James Sutherland has landed in Australia to deliver the blow.