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Watch: Teary-eyed Steve Smith says three magical words, 'I am sorry'

Watch: Teary-eyed Steve Smith says three magical words, 'I am sorry'

'It was a huge error of judgment on my behalf and I'm deeply sorry'

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'I made a serious error of judgement and I understand the consequences. It was a failure of leadership,' he Steve Smith before breaking down in tears

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"

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"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".