
Steve Smith, former Australian skipper, dissolved into tears while addressing the media on Thursday.
On Wednesday he was sent back to Australia from South Africa after facing a 12-month ban by Cricket Australia in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal.
During the interview, he lost control over his emotions and said, "I am sorry, I am absolutely gutted"
"To my knowledge its the first time under my leadership that ball-tampering has happened."
"I should not have allowed it to happen, I take full responsibility, I made a serious error of judgement and I understand the consequences. It was a failure of leadership," he said before breaking down in tears.
"I love the game of cricket. I love entertaining kids. Anytime you think about making questionable decision think about your parents and loved ones. It hurts. I am sorry for the pain I'vebrought to australia."
He further added, "Hope in time I can earn my respect."
Distraught Australian cricket captain Steve Smith accepted full responsibility for a ball-tampering scandal that has shaken the sport, saying he was devastated by his "big mistake".