Banned Australian duo Steve Smith and David Warner will look to share their wealth of experience with budding cricketers when they make their highly anticipated return to club cricket in Sydney on Saturday.

The batsmen were suspended for a year for their part in a ball-tampering scandal during a test in South Africa earlier this year and also removed as captain and vice-captain of the national side.

They were allowed to play in overseas Twenty20 competitions and domestic lower level club cricket but remain ineligible to appear in first-class games until next March.

Smith is due to appear for his Sutherland club against Mosman on Saturday at Glenn McGrath Oval, while Warner will be part of the Randwick-Petersham side to face St George at Coogee.

"Hopefully I can teach some of the young guys the game, help them learn," Smith said in a video published by the Australian Cricketers' Association.

"If I can pass on any information to these young guys coming through and help them turn into better players, I'll do that.

"We want to see Australian cricket strong and it starts at this level. The more older heads there are around to come and help out, the better."

In the same video, Warner said he was excited about guiding "some of the younger guys and older guys in the team".

The presence of Smith and Warner has already raised the profile of grade cricket matches to unprecedented levels and record crowds are expected at the grounds.

Another enticing showdown is expected on Nov. 10, when Sutherland and Randwick-Petersham face each other.

Smith, who will turn out alongside Shane Watson for Sutherland, has played Twenty20 cricket in Canada and the Caribbean during his ban and Saturday's 50-over match will be the first on home soil since the scandal erupted.

Warner played in the NT Strike League in Darwin back in July along with Cameron Bancroft, who is serving a nine-month suspension for his involvement in the scandal. Warner's opponents will include former test teammate Josh Hazlewood.

Former Australia captain Steve Waugh will watch his son Austin play with Smith for Sutherland.

"I don't want to comment particularly on Austin but it'll be a great experience for all young players involved," Steve Waugh told the Australian Associated Press.

"It's a huge opportunity and it's going to fast-track their learning so much.

"I don't know Steve that well personally but watching from the sidelines, you know he's not going to sell himself short in terms of preparation, commitment, dedication and passion. That will all be there, no matter where he's playing."

Banned Australian duo Steve Smith and David Warner will look to share their wealth of experience with budding cricketers when they make their highly anticipated return to club cricket in Sydney on Saturday.

Banned Australian duo Steve Smith and David Warner will look to share their wealth of experience with budding cricketers when they make their highly anticipated return to club cricket in Sydney on Saturday. The batsmen were suspended for a year for their part in a ball-tampering scandal during a test in South Africa earlier this year and also removed as captain and vice-captain of the national side. They were allowed to play in overseas Twenty20 competitions and domestic lower level club cricket but remain ineligible to appear in first-class games until next March. Smith is due to appear for his Sutherland club against Mosman on Saturday at Glenn McGrath Oval, while Warner will be part of the Randwick-Petersham side to face St George at Coogee. "Hopefully I can teach some of the young guys the game, help them learn," Smith said in a video published by the Australian Cricketers' Association. "If I can pass on any information to these young guys coming through and help them turn into better players, I'll do that. "We want to see Australian cricket strong and it starts at this level. The more older heads there are around to come and help out, the better." In the same video, Warner said he was excited about guiding "some of the younger guys and older guys in the team". The presence of Smith and Warner has already raised the profile of grade cricket matches to unprecedented levels and record crowds are expected at the grounds. Another enticing showdown is expected on Nov. 10, when Sutherland and Randwick-Petersham face each other. Smith, who will turn out alongside Shane Watson for Sutherland, has played Twenty20 cricket in Canada and the Caribbean during his ban and Saturday's 50-over match will be the first on home soil since the scandal erupted. Warner played in the NT Strike League in Darwin back in July along with Cameron Bancroft, who is serving a nine-month suspension for his involvement in the scandal. Warner's opponents will include former test teammate Josh Hazlewood. Former Australia captain Steve Waugh will watch his son Austin play with Smith for Sutherland. "I don't want to comment particularly on Austin but it'll be a great experience for all young players involved," Steve Waugh told the Australian Associated Press. "It's a huge opportunity and it's going to fast-track their learning so much. "I don't know Steve that well personally but watching from the sidelines, you know he's not going to sell himself short in terms of preparation, commitment, dedication and passion. That will all be there, no matter where he's playing."

Smith, Warner to mentor team mates on club return

David Warner and Cameron Bancroft will return to competitive cricket from the month of July for the NT Strike League,&nbsp;Darwin. Former vice-captain of Australia, David Warner is serving a ban of 12 months and Bancroft was handed out nine-month suspension over a ball-tampering scandal in March 2017 while playing against South Africa but both the batsmen were allowed to play the domestic tournaments worldwide.

However, Bancroft is available for the entire tournament but David Warner will play only two 50-over matches on July 21 and 22.

NT Strike League is a month-long limited-overs tournament which is comprised of T20 and one-day event that features four franchises - Desert Blaze, City Cyclones, Northern Tide and Southern Storm.

"We're delighted that Cameron and David will be joining us in Darwin for the Strike League," said Northern Territory Cricket chief Joel Morrison in a statement.

"Their presence and experience will be invaluable for our local players."In a statement, David Warner said, "I'm really looking forward to playing in the Strike League in July"

"I heard so much about the competition while I was in Darwin earlier this month that I'm keen to be part of it," he added.

Along with Warner and Bancroft, former skipper Steve Smith was also banned for 12 months for his involvement in the ball-tampering saga.

All the three players are working to rebuild their careers as Steve Smith too set to make his return at an inaugural Global T20 Canada event in Toronto from June 28-July 15.

David Warner and Cameron Bancroft will feature in the NT Strike League in Darwin

David Warner and Cameron Bancroft will return to competitive cricket from the month of July for the NT Strike League, Darwin. Former vice-captain of Australia, David Warner is serving a ban of 12 months and Bancroft was handed out nine-month suspension over a ball-tampering scandal in March 2017 while playing against South Africa but both the batsmen were allowed to play the domestic tournaments worldwide. However, Bancroft is available for the entire tournament but David Warner will play only two 50-over matches on July 21 and 22. NT Strike League is a month-long limited-overs tournament which is comprised of T20 and one-day event that features four franchises - Desert Blaze, City Cyclones, Northern Tide and Southern Storm. "We're delighted that Cameron and David will be joining us in Darwin for the Strike League," said Northern Territory Cricket chief Joel Morrison in a statement. "Their presence and experience will be invaluable for our local players."In a statement, David Warner said, "I'm really looking forward to playing in the Strike League in July" "I heard so much about the competition while I was in Darwin earlier this month that I'm keen to be part of it," he added. Along with Warner and Bancroft, former skipper Steve Smith was also banned for 12 months for his involvement in the ball-tampering saga. All the three players are working to rebuild their careers as Steve Smith too set to make his return at an inaugural Global T20 Canada event in Toronto from June 28-July 15.

David Warner, Cameron Bancroft to return to competitive cricket in July

Cameron Bancroft has been cleared to play club cricket in Western Australia. Although he is serving a 9-month ban over the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa but with the opportunity to play club cricket, he will look to redeem his tarnished name.

Under WA Premier Cricket rules, any Cricket Australia suspension is automatically extended to club ranks, unlike in New South Wales state where Steve Smith and David Warner are able to play while serving their bans.

After discussing the issue with 16 WA Premier Cricket clubs, Bancroft was granted special dispensation to turn out for his club side Willetton.

"It was strongly debated across a number of areas, but ultimately approved. It's great news for Cameron," Western Australia Cricket Association chief executive Christina Matthews said.

Earlier, Cameron Bancroft along with Steve Smith and David Warner is serving bans for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal which was revealed in March 2018 when Australia men's cricket team was touring South Africa for a four-Test match series.

During the third Test at Cape Town, Cameron Bancroft was found guilty of altering the condition of the ball by using sandpaper in order to ‘reverse swing’ the ball.

The incident was caught in various cameras around the ground. Bancroft and Smith accepted that they were involved in the ball tampering mess and eventually punishments followed and with it came the tears- live on TV.

Cameron Bancroft, steve smith, david warner, ball tampering, cricket

Cameron Bancroft has been cleared to play club cricket in Western Australia. Although he is serving a 9-month ban over the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa but with the opportunity to play club cricket, he will look to redeem his tarnished name. Under WA Premier Cricket rules, any Cricket Australia suspension is automatically extended to club ranks, unlike in New South Wales state where Steve Smith and David Warner are able to play while serving their bans. After discussing the issue with 16 WA Premier Cricket clubs, Bancroft was granted special dispensation to turn out for his club side Willetton. "It was strongly debated across a number of areas, but ultimately approved. It's great news for Cameron," Western Australia Cricket Association chief executive Christina Matthews said. Earlier, Cameron Bancroft along with Steve Smith and David Warner is serving bans for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal which was revealed in March 2018 when Australia men's cricket team was touring South Africa for a four-Test match series. During the third Test at Cape Town, Cameron Bancroft was found guilty of altering the condition of the ball by using sandpaper in order to ‘reverse swing’ the ball. The incident was caught in various cameras around the ground. Bancroft and Smith accepted that they were involved in the ball tampering mess and eventually punishments followed and with it came the tears- live on TV.

Cameron Bancroft been cleared to play club cricket

Australia may still be dealing with the aftermath of the ball-tampering scandal but World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten has no doubts they will bounce back and be challenging for one-day cricket's most coveted trophy next year.

The Cape Town scandal in March rocked cricket in Australia to its core and resulted, among other punishments, in lengthy suspensions for then skipper Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner - both key limited overs batsmen.

They will have served their 12-month bans before the World Cup gets underway at the Oval on May 30 but many wonder if Australia, under an as yet unidentified captain, can defend the title they won on home soil three years ago.

"You can never count Australia out of any big tournament," South African Kirsten, who coached India to their 2011 World Cup triumph, told.

"They are the most consistent team across big tournaments and I am sure they will be ready to compete at the next World Cup."

Australia unveiled Justin Langer as the new coach on Thursday, succeeding Darren Lehmann who stepped down despite being cleared by Cricket Australia of any wrongdoing in Cape Town.

Kirsten has also been impressed by the recent progress of Australia's Ashes protagonists, England, whose white-ball resurgence was reflected by their rise to the top spot in ODI rankings on Thursday.

"All the teams have got closer and it really is open for any team to win the big tournaments," said Kirsten.

"England are playing an aggressive and exciting brand of cricket and it has certainly put them in a great position to contend in all tournaments."

The former opener reckoned the gap between top teams has been narrowing over the last decade and next year's tournament could be one of the most open in World Cup history.

South Africa's penchant to implode at World Cups has earned them the "chokers" tag but Kirsten has no doubt that their talismanic batsman AB de Villiers will not be alone in his determination to end the barren run.

"South Africa has built a team where you have a number of match winners," said Kirsten who is working with de Villiers as the batting coach of Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League.

"AB is one of them and he will be doing all he can to make sure he contributes as he always does."

Kirsten plans to open an academy in the western Indian city of Pune by July and is scouting for talents in five other cities in the cricket-mad country.

"This is our first international academy and we are really excited to begin with Pune," he said.

"We will be building a state-of-the-art facility in Pune with an indoor training centre as well as outdoor facilities catering for all year.

"There will be practical work done as well as theoretical work where our team will look to cover aspects such as leadership, tactics, strategy, and captaincy to name a few."

Australia unveiled Justin Langer as the new coach on Thursday, succeeding Darren Lehmann who stepped down despite being cleared by Cricket Australia of any wrongdoing in Cape Town

Australia may still be dealing with the aftermath of the ball-tampering scandal but World Cup-winning coach Gary Kirsten has no doubts they will bounce back and be challenging for one-day cricket's most coveted trophy next year. The Cape Town scandal in March rocked cricket in Australia to its core and resulted, among other punishments, in lengthy suspensions for then skipper Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner - both key limited overs batsmen. They will have served their 12-month bans before the World Cup gets underway at the Oval on May 30 but many wonder if Australia, under an as yet unidentified captain, can defend the title they won on home soil three years ago. "You can never count Australia out of any big tournament," South African Kirsten, who coached India to their 2011 World Cup triumph, told. "They are the most consistent team across big tournaments and I am sure they will be ready to compete at the next World Cup." Australia unveiled Justin Langer as the new coach on Thursday, succeeding Darren Lehmann who stepped down despite being cleared by Cricket Australia of any wrongdoing in Cape Town. Kirsten has also been impressed by the recent progress of Australia's Ashes protagonists, England, whose white-ball resurgence was reflected by their rise to the top spot in ODI rankings on Thursday. "All the teams have got closer and it really is open for any team to win the big tournaments," said Kirsten. "England are playing an aggressive and exciting brand of cricket and it has certainly put them in a great position to contend in all tournaments." The former opener reckoned the gap between top teams has been narrowing over the last decade and next year's tournament could be one of the most open in World Cup history. South Africa's penchant to implode at World Cups has earned them the "chokers" tag but Kirsten has no doubt that their talismanic batsman AB de Villiers will not be alone in his determination to end the barren run. "South Africa has built a team where you have a number of match winners," said Kirsten who is working with de Villiers as the batting coach of Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Indian Premier League. "AB is one of them and he will be doing all he can to make sure he contributes as he always does." Kirsten plans to open an academy in the western Indian city of Pune by July and is scouting for talents in five other cities in the cricket-mad country. "This is our first international academy and we are really excited to begin with Pune," he said. "We will be building a state-of-the-art facility in Pune with an indoor training centre as well as outdoor facilities catering for all year. "There will be practical work done as well as theoretical work where our team will look to cover aspects such as leadership, tactics, strategy, and captaincy to name a few."

Gary Kirsten sees recovering Australia as genuine World Cup contenders

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting isn't convinced with assertions that ball tampering and sledging are deep-rooted in his country's cricketing culture.&nbsp

However, he is relieved that the embarrassing episode of South Africa is coming to a close with the disgraced trio deciding not to challenge their bans.

Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner announced that they have accepted the sanctions imposed by Cricket Australia for their role in ball tampering during the South Africa series.

"Cultural issue is a really interesting thing for me. If we wind the clock a couple of months back, when Australia won the Ashes like they did, there was no talk about cultural problems or issues whatsoever," Ponting answered to a query from PTI.

"But I think a lot of times, cultural things can be blown out of proportion, when the reality inside the dressing room is completely different than what it is spoken about all the time. Honestly feel, on this occasion, I think cultural stuff spoken about is being blown out of proportion to a certain degree," the legendary batsman said.

The two-time World Cup winning captain admitted that it was a shocker for him as to what the trio indulged in and the reaction of Australian public was justified.

"This is the first time I am answering a single question about what happened in South Africa over the past couple of weeks. As a past player and captain, I was quite shocked to see what actually took place out on the field. But the pleasing thing for me is that for the guys, the whole issue is now starting to come to an end," Ponting said during his media interaction organised by his IPL side Delhi Daredevils.

Ponting said that he understood the disappointment of the general Australian public as they have always looked up to their cricket team in a different manner.

"When I was back in Australia a week and a half ago, if you think it was big news out over here, it was astronomical how big an issue it was in Australia and rightly so.

"We as Australians like to play the game hard and fair and our fans expect Australian players to play that way. Reaction of Australian public felt that Australian players had not played the game in a fair way," he said.

Ponting is relieved that the Australian team can now focus on the rebuilding process.

"It seems like it's coming to an end. It is good for the game's sake. Now that the series is over, good thing for players' sake is to try and get away from it all as hard as it might seem for them. They then start rebuilding what has sort of collapsed for them over last couple of weeks," said Ponting.

The man with 27,000 international runs however didn't give a direct answer to what he would have done had he been a Cricket Australia official.

He is relieved that the embarrassing episode is about to close

Former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting isn't convinced with assertions that ball tampering and sledging are deep-rooted in his country's cricketing culture. However, he is relieved that the embarrassing episode of South Africa is coming to a close with the disgraced trio deciding not to challenge their bans. Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner announced that they have accepted the sanctions imposed by Cricket Australia for their role in ball tampering during the South Africa series. "Cultural issue is a really interesting thing for me. If we wind the clock a couple of months back, when Australia won the Ashes like they did, there was no talk about cultural problems or issues whatsoever," Ponting answered to a query from PTI. "But I think a lot of times, cultural things can be blown out of proportion, when the reality inside the dressing room is completely different than what it is spoken about all the time. Honestly feel, on this occasion, I think cultural stuff spoken about is being blown out of proportion to a certain degree," the legendary batsman said. The two-time World Cup winning captain admitted that it was a shocker for him as to what the trio indulged in and the reaction of Australian public was justified. "This is the first time I am answering a single question about what happened in South Africa over the past couple of weeks. As a past player and captain, I was quite shocked to see what actually took place out on the field. But the pleasing thing for me is that for the guys, the whole issue is now starting to come to an end," Ponting said during his media interaction organised by his IPL side Delhi Daredevils. Ponting said that he understood the disappointment of the general Australian public as they have always looked up to their cricket team in a different manner. "When I was back in Australia a week and a half ago, if you think it was big news out over here, it was astronomical how big an issue it was in Australia and rightly so. "We as Australians like to play the game hard and fair and our fans expect Australian players to play that way. Reaction of Australian public felt that Australian players had not played the game in a fair way," he said. Ponting is relieved that the Australian team can now focus on the rebuilding process. "It seems like it's coming to an end. It is good for the game's sake. Now that the series is over, good thing for players' sake is to try and get away from it all as hard as it might seem for them. They then start rebuilding what has sort of collapsed for them over last couple of weeks," said Ponting. The man with 27,000 international runs however didn't give a direct answer to what he would have done had he been a Cricket Australia official.

'Cultural thing is blown out of proportion,' says Ricky Ponting on ball tampering

South Africa opener Aiden Markram on Friday scored his second century of the tournament on the first day of the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg.

The 23-year-old, who is enjoying a remarkable debut season, scored his fourth ton in ten Tests.&nbsp

Impressed by the youngster's technique and placement, Indian skipper Virat Kohli took to Twitter and appreciated Aiden's 152 runs innings of that came off 216 balls.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Aiden Markram ??
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/979717154583986176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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There were 11 fours and a straight six off Nathan Lyon as he reached his hundred off 152 balls.

Previously also, Virat Kohli had praised the South African when he notched up 84 runs at Newlands in Cape Town in the third Test, which witnessed a ball-tampering scandal that shook the world of cricket.&nbsp

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Aiden Markram is a delight to watch!
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) <a href="https://twitter.com/imVkohli/status/977530884696965120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Kohli had been all praise for Aiden even during the India-South Africa Test series when the latter batted majestically for his 94 before being caught behind.

But, before Aiden could leave the field, Kohli approached the departing batsman and praised him for his knock.

"He came across and said 'well played' and 'unlucky to get out'," Markram had said while addressing the media.

"It was a great touch from him. He is a massive competitor as everyone sees on the TV, but it's great to see that he's got good values that people might not always see", he added.

"It was nice, a great gesture and it did mean a lot."

Meanwhile, at the end of day 1, South Africa were 313/6 at stumps.&nbsp

There were 11 fours and a straight six off Nathan Lyon as he reached his hundred

South Africa opener Aiden Markram on Friday scored his second century of the tournament on the first day of the fourth and final Test against Australia at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg. The 23-year-old, who is enjoying a remarkable debut season, scored his fourth ton in ten Tests. Impressed by the youngster's technique and placement, Indian skipper Virat Kohli took to Twitter and appreciated Aiden's 152 runs innings of that came off 216 balls. Aiden Markram ?? — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 30, 2018 × There were 11 fours and a straight six off Nathan Lyon as he reached his hundred off 152 balls. Previously also, Virat Kohli had praised the South African when he notched up 84 runs at Newlands in Cape Town in the third Test, which witnessed a ball-tampering scandal that shook the world of cricket. Aiden Markram is a delight to watch! — Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) March 24, 2018 × Kohli had been all praise for Aiden even during the India-South Africa Test series when the latter batted majestically for his 94 before being caught behind. But, before Aiden could leave the field, Kohli approached the departing batsman and praised him for his knock. "He came across and said 'well played' and 'unlucky to get out'," Markram had said while addressing the media. "It was a great touch from him. He is a massive competitor as everyone sees on the TV, but it's great to see that he's got good values that people might not always see", he added. "It was nice, a great gesture and it did mean a lot." Meanwhile, at the end of day 1, South Africa were 313/6 at stumps.

Australia vs South Africa: Virat Kohli hails Markram's innings, tweets a special message

A distraught David Warner issued an abject apology for his role in the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal on Saturday and said he was resigned to the prospect of never playing cricket for Australia again after his 12-month ban.&nbsp

In a fourth highly emotional media conference in three days involving the Australian cricket team, the former vice-captain struggled to fight back the tears as he read a prepared statement in which he said his actions had been "inexcusable".

"There's a tiny ray of hope that I may one day be given the privilege of playing for my country again but I`m resigned to the fact that that may never happen again," the ashen-faced 31-year-old told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

"In the coming weeks and months I'm going to look at how this happened and who I am as a man. I will seek out advice and expertise to help me make serious changes."&nbsp

Former captain Steve Smith, who gave his own emotional media conference on Thursday, also received a year's ban and batsman Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months for their part in last Saturday's incident, which has rocked Australia.

Coach Darren Lehmann was also reduced to tears when he announced on Thursday he would be stepping down after the South Africa series because of the scandal.

Warner, who has already lost millions of dollars in contracts since the cheating was exposed, said retiring from cricket altogether was one of the options he would "weigh up" with his family.&nbsp

With his wife Candice, also in tears, watching on in the auditorium, Warner said he had not been shocked by what former Australia bowler Shane Warne described as the "hysteria" surrounding the case.&nbsp

"We let our countries down," he said. "We made a bad decision. I played my part in that.&nbsp

"It's really hard to sit here today, knowing and seeing my friends, my family, that are playing in South Africa at the moment in this fourth test, which I wish that I was a part of."

Warner was identified by a Cricket Australia investigation as the main instigator of the plan to scuff up the ball with sandpaper during the third test against South Africa last week.

To any questions about his role in the ball-tampering, Warner answered with an obviously pre-crafted line about taking "full responsibility for the part I played in this".

With Smith apparently already on the road to redemption after his news conference, and Bancroft cast as the junior player led astray by his vice-captain, Warner was asked if he had been made a scapegoat for the affair.

A long pause followed as he looked up and appeared to consider his answer before he again responded with the rote line.&nbsp

"As I said before," he said. "I'm here to speak about myself and take responsibility for the part that I played in this."&nbsp

In a fourth highly emotional media conference in three days involving the Australian cricket team, the former vice-captain struggled to fight back the tears

A distraught David Warner issued an abject apology for his role in the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal on Saturday and said he was resigned to the prospect of never playing cricket for Australia again after his 12-month ban. In a fourth highly emotional media conference in three days involving the Australian cricket team, the former vice-captain struggled to fight back the tears as he read a prepared statement in which he said his actions had been "inexcusable". "There's a tiny ray of hope that I may one day be given the privilege of playing for my country again but I`m resigned to the fact that that may never happen again," the ashen-faced 31-year-old told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground. "In the coming weeks and months I'm going to look at how this happened and who I am as a man. I will seek out advice and expertise to help me make serious changes." Former captain Steve Smith, who gave his own emotional media conference on Thursday, also received a year's ban and batsman Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months for their part in last Saturday's incident, which has rocked Australia. Coach Darren Lehmann was also reduced to tears when he announced on Thursday he would be stepping down after the South Africa series because of the scandal. Warner, who has already lost millions of dollars in contracts since the cheating was exposed, said retiring from cricket altogether was one of the options he would "weigh up" with his family. With his wife Candice, also in tears, watching on in the auditorium, Warner said he had not been shocked by what former Australia bowler Shane Warne described as the "hysteria" surrounding the case. "We let our countries down," he said. "We made a bad decision. I played my part in that. "It's really hard to sit here today, knowing and seeing my friends, my family, that are playing in South Africa at the moment in this fourth test, which I wish that I was a part of." Warner was identified by a Cricket Australia investigation as the main instigator of the plan to scuff up the ball with sandpaper during the third test against South Africa last week. To any questions about his role in the ball-tampering, Warner answered with an obviously pre-crafted line about taking "full responsibility for the part I played in this". With Smith apparently already on the road to redemption after his news conference, and Bancroft cast as the junior player led astray by his vice-captain, Warner was asked if he had been made a scapegoat for the affair. A long pause followed as he looked up and appeared to consider his answer before he again responded with the rote line. "As I said before," he said. "I'm here to speak about myself and take responsibility for the part that I played in this."

Apologetic Warner 'resigned' to never playing for Australia again

Wealth-management company Magellan has terminated its three-year sponsorship agreement with Cricket Australia in response to the ball-tampering scandal.

The naming rights sponsorship of the men's national cricket team's domestic series, estimated by the Australian Financial Review to be worth $20 million, only started ahead of last summer's Ashes Test series and was supposed to run for two more seasons.

Magellan's co-founder and chief executive Hamish Douglass said the ball-tampering in South Africa was "so inconsistent with our values that we are left with no option but to terminate our ongoing partnership with Cricket Australia".

Qantas, whose logo is prominent on the Australian team's shirts, said today it would continue its sponsorship, despite CEO Alan Joyce said on Tuesday he was, "very disappointed" with the incident.

Thursday's terminations are the latest commercial blows from the furore that has spread across the cricketing world after opening batsman and vice-captain Warner, Bancroft and captain Steve Smith were suspended for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal during a Test match in South Africa.

Electronics company LG, a manufacturer of televisions, refrigerators and a wide range of other goods, was the first sponsor to take action, pulling out of its sponsorship arrangement with Warner on Wednesday.

Late on Wednesday, Cricket Australia slapped captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner with 12-month bans from international and domestic cricket for their role in a scandal that has rocked the sport.

Cameron Bancroft, who was caught on camera attempting to scuff up the ball with improvised sandpaper during a test against South Africa in Cape Town, was banned for nine months. All three were sent home from South Africa.

Investment firm Magellan, which was naming rights sponsor of Australian Test series, has terminated its three-year deal in reaction to the cheating scandal.

Wealth-management company Magellan has terminated its three-year sponsorship agreement with Cricket Australia in response to the ball-tampering scandal. The naming rights sponsorship of the men's national cricket team's domestic series, estimated by the Australian Financial Review to be worth $20 million, only started ahead of last summer's Ashes Test series and was supposed to run for two more seasons. Magellan's co-founder and chief executive Hamish Douglass said the ball-tampering in South Africa was "so inconsistent with our values that we are left with no option but to terminate our ongoing partnership with Cricket Australia". Qantas, whose logo is prominent on the Australian team's shirts, said today it would continue its sponsorship, despite CEO Alan Joyce said on Tuesday he was, "very disappointed" with the incident. Thursday's terminations are the latest commercial blows from the furore that has spread across the cricketing world after opening batsman and vice-captain Warner, Bancroft and captain Steve Smith were suspended for their roles in the ball-tampering scandal during a Test match in South Africa. Electronics company LG, a manufacturer of televisions, refrigerators and a wide range of other goods, was the first sponsor to take action, pulling out of its sponsorship arrangement with Warner on Wednesday. Late on Wednesday, Cricket Australia slapped captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner with 12-month bans from international and domestic cricket for their role in a scandal that has rocked the sport. Cameron Bancroft, who was caught on camera attempting to scuff up the ball with improvised sandpaper during a test against South Africa in Cape Town, was banned for nine months. All three were sent home from South Africa.

Ball tampering: Cricket Australia loses major sponsor

The ugliest side of Australian cricket was seen in the thirst Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday when Australian skipper admitted to&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-banned-for-one-test-fined-100-match-fee-icc-37030">altering the condition</a>&nbspof the ball.

Australian batsman&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-banned-for-one-test-fined-100-match-fee-icc-37030">Cameron Bancroft</a>&nbspwas caught in the camera when he took out a yellow-colored substance from his pocket and applied on the ball to increase the roughness of one side of the ball.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-banned-for-one-test-fined-100-match-fee-icc-37030">Steve Smith</a>&nbsphas been trapped in a cyclone of controversies and was booed by the South African fans when he entered to play in the second innings. He scored only seven runs off twenty balls.

Watch the video here:

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Aussies blatantly ball tampering? Let’s see what Steve Smith and the Boys have to say now <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShaneWarne</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BumbleCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BumbleCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsSA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/aOsbW4Lh1K">pic.twitter.com/aOsbW4Lh1K</a>
— Shaylin Perumal (@AngryShaylin) <a href="https://twitter.com/AngryShaylin/status/977529362101735425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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For the deliberate intention of ball tampering, ICC has slapped Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft with a one-match ban and fined 75% of match fee.

In the wake of the ball-tampering controversy, Steve Smith had stepped down as the captain of the Australian cricket team also Vice-captain David Warner also agreed to step down from his position.

Steve Smith even&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-ajinkya-rahane-to-lead-rajasthan-after-smith-steps-down-as-captain-over-ball-tampering-admission-37120">quit as the captain of Rajasthan Royals</a>&nbspand the position is taken over by Ajinkya Rahane. Though, it is still not clear whether Smith will play as a player for Royals or not.

Smith was a part of the Rajasthan Royals in 2014 and 2015 and was the only player retained by the franchise.

Steve Smith has been trapped in a cyclone of controversies and was booed by the South African fans when he entered to play in the second innings of 3rd Test match against South Africa

The ugliest side of Australian cricket was seen in the thirst Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday when Australian skipper admitted to altering the condition&nbspof the ball. Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft&nbspwas caught in the camera when he took out a yellow-colored substance from his pocket and applied on the ball to increase the roughness of one side of the ball. Steve Smith&nbsphas been trapped in a cyclone of controversies and was booed by the South African fans when he entered to play in the second innings. He scored only seven runs off twenty balls. Watch the video here: Aussies blatantly ball tampering? Let’s see what Steve Smith and the Boys have to say now @ShaneWarne @BumbleCricket #AUSvsSA pic.twitter.com/aOsbW4Lh1K — Shaylin Perumal (@AngryShaylin) March 24, 2018 × For the deliberate intention of ball tampering, ICC has slapped Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft with a one-match ban and fined 75% of match fee. In the wake of the ball-tampering controversy, Steve Smith had stepped down as the captain of the Australian cricket team also Vice-captain David Warner also agreed to step down from his position. Steve Smith even quit as the captain of Rajasthan Royals&nbspand the position is taken over by Ajinkya Rahane. Though, it is still not clear whether Smith will play as a player for Royals or not. Smith was a part of the Rajasthan Royals in 2014 and 2015 and was the only player retained by the franchise.

Watch: How Cameron Bancroft tampered the ball on Steve Smith's orders in 3rd Test against the Proteas

Australian cricket players Steve Smith and David Warner could be staring at a possible life ban, news reports said Monday.&nbsp;

The duo had stepped down as captain and vice-captain of the Australian team on Sunday, after a stunning&nbsp;ball-tampering admission by Smith.&nbsp;

The ICC has slapped the duo with a one-match ban and fined Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft — who did the actual tampering, against&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/south-africa-rout-embattled-australia-by-322-runs-in-third-test-37042" target="_blank">South Africa</a>&nbsp;— 75% of his match fee.

The bans and the fine have been called "very lenient"&nbsp;by&nbsp;a number of people:&nbsp;

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wow <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> wow. Great treatment nd FairPlay. No ban for Bancroft with all the evidences whereas 6 of us were banned for excessive appealing in South Africa 2001 without any evidence and Remember Sydney 2008? Not found guilty and banned for 3 matches.different people different rules
— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/977911377447677953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">25 March 2018</a></blockquote>
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But there has been tremendous fallout back home in Australia. With Prime Minister Malcolm Turbull wondering how the team could have cheated — "It beggars belief," he said — and the media pillorying the team's "rotten" culture under its current leadership.&nbsp;

And the news reports Monday quoted anonymous sources in Cricket Australia, which is investigating the incident, as saying the team's "leadership group" could be slapped with exemplary punishment, which could be as severe as a life ban.&nbsp;

The ICC has slapped the duo with a one-match ban but news reports quoted Cricket Australia sources as saying the duo could be hit with 'exemplary punishment'

Australian cricket players Steve Smith and David Warner could be staring at a possible life ban, news reports said Monday. The duo had stepped down as captain and vice-captain of the Australian team on Sunday, after a stunning ball-tampering admission by Smith. The ICC has slapped the duo with a one-match ban and fined Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft — who did the actual tampering, against South Africa — 75% of his match fee. The bans and the fine have been called "very lenient" by a number of people: wow @ICC wow. Great treatment nd FairPlay. No ban for Bancroft with all the evidences whereas 6 of us were banned for excessive appealing in South Africa 2001 without any evidence and Remember Sydney 2008? Not found guilty and banned for 3 matches.different people different rules — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) 25 March 2018 × But there has been tremendous fallout back home in Australia. With Prime Minister Malcolm Turbull wondering how the team could have cheated — "It beggars belief," he said — and the media pillorying the team's "rotten" culture under its current leadership. And the news reports Monday quoted anonymous sources in Cricket Australia, which is investigating the incident, as saying the team's "leadership group" could be slapped with exemplary punishment, which could be as severe as a life ban.

Steve Smith, David Warner facing possible life bans

Steve Smith has stepped down as the captain of the Australian cricket team following the ball-tampering saga that took place during the third day of the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday.&nbsp;

Vice-captain David Warner also agreed to step down from his position.&nbsp;

The announcement came almost an hour after the Australian government called for the removal of Smith as captain.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-row-australian-government-calls-for-steve-smiths-sacking-as-captain-37005" target="_blank">Australian government calls for Steve Smith&#39;s sacking as captain</a>

Confirming the news, Cricket Australia CEO, James Sutherland said: &ldquo;Following discussions with Steve Smith and David Warner they have agreed to stand down as Captain and Vice-Captain respectively for the remainder of this Test match.&quot;

Wicket-keeper Tim Paine has been handed over the responsibility to lead Australia for the remaining two days of the Test.

Both Smith and Warner, will take to the field today under Tim&rsquo;s captaincy.

&ldquo;This Test match needs to proceed, and in the interim we will continue to investigate this matter with the urgency that it demands. As I said earlier today, Cricket Australia and Australian cricket fans expect certain standards of conduct from cricketers representing our country, and on this occasion these standards have not been met, &quot; Sutherland added.

&ldquo;All Australians, like us, want answers and we will keep you updated on our findings, as a matter of priority,&rdquo; he concluded.&nbsp;

While addressing a press conference, Smith admitted to altering the condition of the ball during the day 3 of the third Test against Australia in Cape Town. 
&nbsp;

Wicket-keeper Tim Paine has been handed over the responsibility of leading Australia

Steve Smith has stepped down as the captain of the Australian cricket team following the ball-tampering saga that took place during the third day of the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday. Vice-captain David Warner also agreed to step down from his position. The announcement came almost an hour after the Australian government called for the removal of Smith as captain. Also read: Australian government calls for Steve Smith's sacking as captain Confirming the news, Cricket Australia CEO, James Sutherland said: “Following discussions with Steve Smith and David Warner they have agreed to stand down as Captain and Vice-Captain respectively for the remainder of this Test match." Wicket-keeper Tim Paine has been handed over the responsibility to lead Australia for the remaining two days of the Test. Both Smith and Warner, will take to the field today under Tim’s captaincy. “This Test match needs to proceed, and in the interim we will continue to investigate this matter with the urgency that it demands. As I said earlier today, Cricket Australia and Australian cricket fans expect certain standards of conduct from cricketers representing our country, and on this occasion these standards have not been met, " Sutherland added. “All Australians, like us, want answers and we will keep you updated on our findings, as a matter of priority,” he concluded. While addressing a press conference, Smith admitted to altering the condition of the ball during the day 3 of the third Test against Australia in Cape Town.

After ball-tampering admission, Smith, Warner step down as captain, vice-captain of Australian cricket team

A day after Steve Smith admitted to altering the condition of the ball during the day 3 of the third Test against Australia in Cape Town, the Australian government has called for the removal of Smith as captain.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull also termed the incident a shocking disappointment.

&quot;It seems beyond belief the Australian cricket team have been involved in cheating. Our cricketers are role models and cricket is synonymous with fair play. How can our team be engaged in cheating like this? It beggars belief&rdquo;, said the prime minister.

&ldquo;I&rsquo;ve spoken with David Peever, the Chairman of Cricket Australia, a few moments ago and I&rsquo;ve expressed to him very clearly and unequivocally my disappointment and my concern about the events in South Africa. It&rsquo;s their responsibility to deal with it, but I have to say that (to) the whole nation, who holds those who wear the Baggy Green up on a pedestal, about as high as you can get in Australia this is a shocking disappointment. It&rsquo;s wrong, and I look forward to Cricket Australia taking decisive action soon,&rdquo; he added.

Earlier, the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) called for Smith to be stood down immediately, along with any other members of the team leadership group or coaching staff who had prior awareness of, or involvement in the plan.

However, Smith insisted he will not quit after teammate Cameron Bancroft was caught using a yellow object to alter the condition of the ball.&nbsp;

Cricket Australia said that they were sending Iain Roy, Head of Integrity, and Pat Howard, the High Performance Manger to investigate the ball-tampering issue and attempt to get a clearer picture.

CA chief James Sutherland said that they were &ldquo;extremely disappointed and shocked with what we woke up to this morning.

The ongoing series has already been marred by several on-field and off-field incidents.&nbsp;

South Africa currently lead by 294 runs with five wickets in hand going into day four.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull also termed the incident a shocking disappointment

A day after Steve Smith admitted to altering the condition of the ball during the day 3 of the third Test against Australia in Cape Town, the Australian government has called for the removal of Smith as captain. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull also termed the incident a shocking disappointment. "It seems beyond belief the Australian cricket team have been involved in cheating. Our cricketers are role models and cricket is synonymous with fair play. How can our team be engaged in cheating like this? It beggars belief”, said the prime minister. “I’ve spoken with David Peever, the Chairman of Cricket Australia, a few moments ago and I’ve expressed to him very clearly and unequivocally my disappointment and my concern about the events in South Africa. It’s their responsibility to deal with it, but I have to say that (to) the whole nation, who holds those who wear the Baggy Green up on a pedestal, about as high as you can get in Australia this is a shocking disappointment. It’s wrong, and I look forward to Cricket Australia taking decisive action soon,” he added. Earlier, the Australian Sports Commission (ASC) called for Smith to be stood down immediately, along with any other members of the team leadership group or coaching staff who had prior awareness of, or involvement in the plan. However, Smith insisted he will not quit after teammate Cameron Bancroft was caught using a yellow object to alter the condition of the ball. Cricket Australia said that they were sending Iain Roy, Head of Integrity, and Pat Howard, the High Performance Manger to investigate the ball-tampering issue and attempt to get a clearer picture. CA chief James Sutherland said that they were “extremely disappointed and shocked with what we woke up to this morning. The ongoing series has already been marred by several on-field and off-field incidents. South Africa currently lead by 294 runs with five wickets in hand going into day four.

Ball tampering row: Australian government calls for Steve Smith's sacking as captain

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More than a million Americans flooded the streets of cities nationwide for emotional protests demanding tighter gun control on Saturday, protests spearheaded by teenagers from a Florida high school where 17 people were shot dead last month.

 
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Nearly 90 per cent of the Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis while the average of total assets Upper House parliamentarians is Rs 55 crore, says a report.

 
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The granddaughter of the late civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. energised the crowd in Washington on Saturday (March 24) during the March For Our Lives Rally demanding tighter gun laws, led by survivors of last month&#39;s Florida school massacre which reignited public anger over mass shootings.

 
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Turkey&rsquo;s military and its Syrian rebel allies have taken full control of northwest Syria&rsquo;s Afrin region, a Turkish army source said on Saturday, as aid workers distributed food to people in the area.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank">Australia captain Steve Smith fights for job</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank"> as CA announce </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank">ball-tampering</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-captain-smith-fights-for-job-as-ca-announce-ball-tamper-probe-36980" target="_blank"> probe</a>

Australia captain Steve Smith was fighting to save his job and reputation on Sunday after admitting he was the chief plotter in the ball-tampering scandal which has plunged the game into crisis and sparked a Cricket Australia probe.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Over 1 million Americans pour out onto streets, demand tighter gun control More than a million Americans flooded the streets of cities nationwide for emotional protests demanding tighter gun control on Saturday, protests spearheaded by teenagers from a Florida high school where 17 people were shot dead last month. 90% Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis: Report Nearly 90 per cent of the Rajya Sabha MPs are crorepatis while the average of total assets Upper House parliamentarians is Rs 55 crore, says a report. US protests: Martin Luther King's granddaughter leads crowd calling for gun reform The granddaughter of the late civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. energised the crowd in Washington on Saturday (March 24) during the March For Our Lives Rally demanding tighter gun laws, led by survivors of last month's Florida school massacre which reignited public anger over mass shootings. Turkey takes full control of Syria's Afrin: Military source Turkey’s military and its Syrian rebel allies have taken full control of northwest Syria’s Afrin region, a Turkish army source said on Saturday, as aid workers distributed food to people in the area. Australia captain Steve Smith fights for job as CA announce ball-tampering probe Australia captain Steve Smith was fighting to save his job and reputation on Sunday after admitting he was the chief plotter in the ball-tampering scandal which has plunged the game into crisis and sparked a Cricket Australia probe.

WION Morning News Brief, March 25, 2018

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has been charged with ball tampering during the second test against Australia in Hobart, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Friday.

The ICC announced on Wednesday that it would review footage of the match that appeared to show du Plessis applying saliva to the ball with a lolly in his mouth.

&quot;The charge relates to changing the condition of the ball in breach of Law 42.3 and has been laid by the ICC Chief Executive David Richardson who has exercised his right to do so,&quot; the ICC said in a statement.

&quot;Du Plessis has pleaded not guilty to the charge ... Details of the hearing will be announced in due course,&quot; the governing body added.

If proven guilty, du Plessis could be handed a maximum fine of 100 per cent match fee, two suspension points and four demerit points. Two suspension points equates to a ban of one test match.

Earlier in the day, Hashim Amla was accompanied at a media briefing by the entire South African squad and support staff to &quot;show solidarity&quot; with their captain.

Amla said du Plessis has done &quot;absolutely nothing wrong&quot;.

&quot;The reason everybody is here is to stand together and to show solidarity to what has been something we actually thought was a joke. It&#39;s not April,&quot; Amla said, hours before the ICC charge was announced.

&quot;But the allegations against Faf were really, for us, a ridiculous thing and as a team we are standing strong. For us it is basically a joke. The boys are here, standing strong.&quot;

The 32-year-old du Plessis, the stand-in captain for the injured AB de Villiers has previously been in hot water for ball tampering.

In 2013, he was fined 50 per cent of his match fee for ball tampering in the second test against Pakistan.

He was caught on camera rubbing the ball against a zip on his pocket on the third day of the match in Dubai, leading umpires Ian Gould and Rod Tucker to penalise South Africa five runs and change the ball. Du Plessis did not contest the charge.

South Africa&#39;s innings and 80-run win over Australia in Hobart sealed the three-match test series with a game in hand.

(Reuters) 
&nbsp;

The council will review footage of the match that showed du Plessis applying saliva to the ball to change its condition

South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has been charged with ball tampering during the second test against Australia in Hobart, the International Cricket Council (ICC) said on Friday. The ICC announced on Wednesday that it would review footage of the match that appeared to show du Plessis applying saliva to the ball with a lolly in his mouth. "The charge relates to changing the condition of the ball in breach of Law 42.3 and has been laid by the ICC Chief Executive David Richardson who has exercised his right to do so," the ICC said in a statement. "Du Plessis has pleaded not guilty to the charge ... Details of the hearing will be announced in due course," the governing body added. If proven guilty, du Plessis could be handed a maximum fine of 100 per cent match fee, two suspension points and four demerit points. Two suspension points equates to a ban of one test match. Earlier in the day, Hashim Amla was accompanied at a media briefing by the entire South African squad and support staff to "show solidarity" with their captain. Amla said du Plessis has done "absolutely nothing wrong". "The reason everybody is here is to stand together and to show solidarity to what has been something we actually thought was a joke. It's not April," Amla said, hours before the ICC charge was announced. "But the allegations against Faf were really, for us, a ridiculous thing and as a team we are standing strong. For us it is basically a joke. The boys are here, standing strong." The 32-year-old du Plessis, the stand-in captain for the injured AB de Villiers has previously been in hot water for ball tampering. In 2013, he was fined 50 per cent of his match fee for ball tampering in the second test against Pakistan. He was caught on camera rubbing the ball against a zip on his pocket on the third day of the match in Dubai, leading umpires Ian Gould and Rod Tucker to penalise South Africa five runs and change the ball. Du Plessis did not contest the charge. South Africa's innings and 80-run win over Australia in Hobart sealed the three-match test series with a game in hand. (Reuters)

South Africa captain du Plessis charged with ball tampering: ICC

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