Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft's recent statements detailing the build-up to the ball-tampering scandal will "raise a few eyebrows" but are unlikely to cause any fresh upheaval in the team.

Speaking to Cricket Australia's official website, 'cricket.Com.Au' on Thursday, Ponting said he is quite stunned by the statements.

In interviews given to 'Fox Sports', Bancroft has said that he was encouraged by David Warner, who is also serving a ban, to tamper the ball, while Smith has claimed that Cricket Australia's now ousted top officials encouraged a 'win at all cost' culture by statements like "we don't pay you to play, we pay you to win".

"Now that those stories are out there, it's going to be interesting to see what the reaction is tomorrow in newspapers and news channels. There's enough in those stories to raise a few eyebrows," Ponting was quoted as saying.

At the same time, Ponting said he does not believe the fresh controversy on the matter will have an impact on the national team.

"I think the guys that are not banned have had long enough to move on from that sort of stuff," he said.

"I'm pretty sure that Painey (current captain Tim Paine) and some of the other guys, they have to leave that behind and move on and worry about what's happening in the middle of the MCG.

"Because right now, the series is at absolute fever pitch&nbsp;so the less distractions the better," he added referring to the ongoing four-Test series against India which is locked 1-1.&nbsp;

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft's recent statements detailing the build-up to the ball-tampering scandal will "raise a few eyebrows" but are unlikely to cause any fresh upheaval in the team.

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft's recent statements detailing the build-up to the ball-tampering scandal will "raise a few eyebrows" but are unlikely to cause any fresh upheaval in the team. Speaking to Cricket Australia's official website, 'cricket.Com.Au' on Thursday, Ponting said he is quite stunned by the statements. In interviews given to 'Fox Sports', Bancroft has said that he was encouraged by David Warner, who is also serving a ban, to tamper the ball, while Smith has claimed that Cricket Australia's now ousted top officials encouraged a 'win at all cost' culture by statements like "we don't pay you to play, we pay you to win". "Now that those stories are out there, it's going to be interesting to see what the reaction is tomorrow in newspapers and news channels. There's enough in those stories to raise a few eyebrows," Ponting was quoted as saying. At the same time, Ponting said he does not believe the fresh controversy on the matter will have an impact on the national team. "I think the guys that are not banned have had long enough to move on from that sort of stuff," he said. "I'm pretty sure that Painey (current captain Tim Paine) and some of the other guys, they have to leave that behind and move on and worry about what's happening in the middle of the MCG. "Because right now, the series is at absolute fever pitch so the less distractions the better," he added referring to the ongoing four-Test series against India which is locked 1-1.

Bancroft, Smith comments on ball-tampering scandal will raise eyebrows: Ponting

Banned Australian player Cameron Bancroft on Wednesday confirmed <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/david-warner-will-never-get-leadership-role-cricket-australia-126998">David Warner</a> asked him to alter the ball during the tampering scandal in South Africa and said he went along with it "to fit in".

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/cameron-bancroft-been-cleared-to-play-club-cricket--137063">Bancroft was seen using sandpaper</a> to try to rough up the ball in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/australian-cricketer-david-warner-arrives-in-sydney-after-ball-tampering-scandal-127213">Cape Town Test in March</a>, receiving a nine-month ban from international and domestic cricket for his part in an incident that rocked the sport.

Warner and then captain Steve Smith were exiled for a year after all three were found to be involved.

A Cricket Australia investigation pointed to Warner as the mastermind and Bancroft revealed more details in an interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist on Fox Sports.

"Dave suggested to me to carry the action out on the ball given the situation we were in the game and I didn't know any better," said Bancroft, whose ban runs out this coming weekend.

"I didn't know any better because I just wanted to fit in and feel valued really. As simple as that.

"The decision was based around my values, what I valued at the time, and I valued fitting in ... you hope that fitting in earns you respect and with that, I guess, there came a pretty big cost for the mistake."

At the time, Bancroft had been forging a new Australian Test opening partnership with the more experienced Warner. But he made he clear he did not consider himself a victim.&nbsp;

"I had a choice and I made a massive mistake and that is what is in my control," said Bancroft, who admitted he had often pondered what would have happened if he had said no and concluded it was a no-win situation.

"I would have gone to bed and I would have felt like I had let everybody down. I would have felt like I had let the team down. I would have left like I had hurt our chances to win the game of cricket."

- 'Don't want to know' - 
Last week Smith also opened up as he begins to re-emerge into public life, distancing himself from the plot while admitting he failed as a captain by turning a blind eye.

Asked what happened in the changing rooms at Cape Town before Bancroft attempted to cheat, he said: "For me in the room, I walked past something and had the opportunity to stop it and I didn't do it and that was my leadership failure.

"It was the potential for something to happen and it went on and happened out in the field," he added.

"I had the opportunity to stop it at that point rather than say, 'I don't want to know anything about it'.

"And that was my failure of leadership. And, you know, I've taken responsibility for that."

Smith made no mention of Warner, who has previously apologised and accepted responsibility for his part in the scandal.

Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts said Wednesday it was time to move on.

"The events of Cape Town were investigated and dealt with some nine months ago now so there's no new news there," he told reporters ahead of the third Test against India in Melbourne.

"What's important at this point is that we work with the players and with the leaders of the team on the reintegration of the sanctioned players when they become eligible for selection.”

Melbourne's Herald Sun cited Roberts as saying Cricket Australia would take the extraordinary step of canvassing the attitude of the dressing room before allowing the banned players back.

Bancroft is expected to make his return for the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League on Sunday, with Smith and Warner available from late March.

Banned Australian player Cameron Bancroft on Wednesday confirmed David Warner asked him to alter the ball during the tampering scandal in South Africa and said he went along with it "to fit in".

Banned Australian player Cameron Bancroft on Wednesday confirmed David Warner asked him to alter the ball during the tampering scandal in South Africa and said he went along with it "to fit in". Bancroft was seen using sandpaper to try to rough up the ball in the Cape Town Test in March, receiving a nine-month ban from international and domestic cricket for his part in an incident that rocked the sport. Warner and then captain Steve Smith were exiled for a year after all three were found to be involved. A Cricket Australia investigation pointed to Warner as the mastermind and Bancroft revealed more details in an interview with former Australia wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist on Fox Sports. "Dave suggested to me to carry the action out on the ball given the situation we were in the game and I didn't know any better," said Bancroft, whose ban runs out this coming weekend. "I didn't know any better because I just wanted to fit in and feel valued really. As simple as that. "The decision was based around my values, what I valued at the time, and I valued fitting in ... you hope that fitting in earns you respect and with that, I guess, there came a pretty big cost for the mistake." At the time, Bancroft had been forging a new Australian Test opening partnership with the more experienced Warner. But he made he clear he did not consider himself a victim. "I had a choice and I made a massive mistake and that is what is in my control," said Bancroft, who admitted he had often pondered what would have happened if he had said no and concluded it was a no-win situation. "I would have gone to bed and I would have felt like I had let everybody down. I would have felt like I had let the team down. I would have left like I had hurt our chances to win the game of cricket." - 'Don't want to know' - Last week Smith also opened up as he begins to re-emerge into public life, distancing himself from the plot while admitting he failed as a captain by turning a blind eye. Asked what happened in the changing rooms at Cape Town before Bancroft attempted to cheat, he said: "For me in the room, I walked past something and had the opportunity to stop it and I didn't do it and that was my leadership failure. "It was the potential for something to happen and it went on and happened out in the field," he added. "I had the opportunity to stop it at that point rather than say, 'I don't want to know anything about it'. "And that was my failure of leadership. And, you know, I've taken responsibility for that." Smith made no mention of Warner, who has previously apologised and accepted responsibility for his part in the scandal. Cricket Australia chief executive Kevin Roberts said Wednesday it was time to move on. "The events of Cape Town were investigated and dealt with some nine months ago now so there's no new news there," he told reporters ahead of the third Test against India in Melbourne. "What's important at this point is that we work with the players and with the leaders of the team on the reintegration of the sanctioned players when they become eligible for selection.” Melbourne's Herald Sun cited Roberts as saying Cricket Australia would take the extraordinary step of canvassing the attitude of the dressing room before allowing the banned players back. Bancroft is expected to make his return for the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League on Sunday, with Smith and Warner available from late March.

David Warner asked me to tamper with ball, says Cameron Bancroft

Disgraced Australian player <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=Cameron+Bancroft">Cameron Bancroft</a> Saturday said he was a vastly different person to the one caught ball-tampering and revealed he considered walking away from cricket to become a yoga teacher.

The opener received a nine-month ban from the international and domestic game for his part in the scandal in South Africa that rocked the sport, in which he used sandpaper to try to alter the ball.

Then-captain Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner were suspended for a year.

A day after Smith re-emerged into public life with a press conference in Sydney, Bancroft has also broken his silence a week ahead of his ban running out.

He did so in the form of a long letter addressed to his former self, published in the West Australian newspaper, describing his emotional journey since.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-my-leadership-failure-says-steve-smith-denying-involvement-in-ball-tampering-scandal-185619">It was my 'leadership failure', says Steve Smith denying involvement in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-my-leadership-failure-says-steve-smith-denying-involvement-in-ball-tampering-scandal-185619">ball-tampering</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-my-leadership-failure-says-steve-smith-denying-involvement-in-ball-tampering-scandal-185619"> scandal</a>

In it, Bancroft describes the major influence Australian coach Justin Langer has had on him, along with West Australian mentor Adam Voges.

He said a crucial moment was Voges asking him to justify why he should be on a pre-season trip to Brisbane by the Western Warriors Sheffield Shield team.

"On your way to present your case to your coach you realise this is the moment when you begin to become OK with the thought of never having cricket as part of your life again," he wrote in the self-addressed letter.

"Until you are able to acknowledge that you are Cameron Bancroft, the person who plays cricket as a profession, and not Cameron Bancroft the cricketer, you will not be able to move forward.

"This will become a defining moment for you."

Yoga became an important part of his life in exile while dealing with an absence of cricket, to the extent that he considered quitting the game to become of a teacher of the discipline.

"Maybe cricket isn't for you, you'll ask yourself ... will you return? Yoga will be such a fulfilling experience," he wrote.

Bancroft ultimately decided to pursue his cricket career and is due to make his comeback in the Big Bash Twenty20 League for the Perth Scorchers on December 30.

"While you do not look that different, on the inside you are a vastly different man to the bloke who made that mistake in South Africa," he added in the letter.

"You know you cannot say sorry enough, but actually it is time you allow your cricket to be about what you have learnt and use this opportunity to make a great impact."

Disgraced Australian player Cameron Bancroft Saturday said he was a vastly different person to the one caught ball-tampering and revealed he considered walking away from cricket to become a yoga teacher.

Disgraced Australian player Cameron Bancroft Saturday said he was a vastly different person to the one caught ball-tampering and revealed he considered walking away from cricket to become a yoga teacher. The opener received a nine-month ban from the international and domestic game for his part in the scandal in South Africa that rocked the sport, in which he used sandpaper to try to alter the ball. Then-captain Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner were suspended for a year. A day after Smith re-emerged into public life with a press conference in Sydney, Bancroft has also broken his silence a week ahead of his ban running out. He did so in the form of a long letter addressed to his former self, published in the West Australian newspaper, describing his emotional journey since. Also Read: It was my 'leadership failure', says Steve Smith denying involvement in ball-tampering scandal In it, Bancroft describes the major influence Australian coach Justin Langer has had on him, along with West Australian mentor Adam Voges. He said a crucial moment was Voges asking him to justify why he should be on a pre-season trip to Brisbane by the Western Warriors Sheffield Shield team. "On your way to present your case to your coach you realise this is the moment when you begin to become OK with the thought of never having cricket as part of your life again," he wrote in the self-addressed letter. "Until you are able to acknowledge that you are Cameron Bancroft, the person who plays cricket as a profession, and not Cameron Bancroft the cricketer, you will not be able to move forward. "This will become a defining moment for you." Yoga became an important part of his life in exile while dealing with an absence of cricket, to the extent that he considered quitting the game to become of a teacher of the discipline. "Maybe cricket isn't for you, you'll ask yourself ... will you return? Yoga will be such a fulfilling experience," he wrote. Bancroft ultimately decided to pursue his cricket career and is due to make his comeback in the Big Bash Twenty20 League for the Perth Scorchers on December 30. "While you do not look that different, on the inside you are a vastly different man to the bloke who made that mistake in South Africa," he added in the letter. "You know you cannot say sorry enough, but actually it is time you allow your cricket to be about what you have learnt and use this opportunity to make a great impact."

Cameron Bancroft reveals he almost gave up cricket for yoga

Former Australia captain <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=steve+smith">Steve Smith</a> said on Friday he had not been involved in planning to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=ball+tampering">tamper with the ball</a> during the Cape Town Test against South Africa but took responsibility as a leader for failing to put a stop to it.

Smith, along with vice-captain David Warner and opening batsman Cameron Bancroft, was suspended for his part in the ball-tampering incident which shocked the cricket world and torpedoed Australia's sporting reputation.

Facing Australian media for the first time since his teary apology at a news conference at Sydney airport on March 29, Smith said he had learned of the plan when he overheard a conversation in the team's dressing room at Newlands.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-serena-williams-here-are-controversial-sports-personalities-of-2018-184051">From Australia's ball-tampering scandal to Serena's cheating row, here are top sports controversies of 2018</a>

"I think it's been documented pretty heavily, sort of, what went on," he told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

"For me in the room, I walked past something and had the opportunity to stop it and I didn't do it and that was my leadership failure.

"It was the potential for something to happen and it went on and happened out in the field.

"I had the opportunity to stop it at that point rather than say, 'I don’t want to know anything about it' and that was my failure of leadership. And you know I’ve taken responsibility for that."

Smith declined to name the players involved but reiterated that he had told them, "I don't want to know about it", and then walked away.

Smith has kept a low media profile since the scandal, despite playing at Twenty20 tournaments in Canada and the Caribbean, and turning out for his Sydney club side Sutherland.

However, in recent weeks he has made gradual moves to rehabilitate his public image and joined his former Australia teammates at training sessions.

Brand Power

Smith has also tested the waters to see how his brand power has fared in the wake of the incident, linking up with the local arm of Britain's Vodafone Group to shoot an advertisement which played on his shame and hopes of redemption.

The commercial, and Smith's involvement in it, was criticised by some media pundits and generated mixed responses on social media.

Smith said he was getting paid for the campaign but also "putting forward" funds from it to Gotcha4Life, a local men's mental health charity.

The 29-year-old added that it had been tough at times watching Australia play from the sidelines and said he was determined to break back into the one-day side for the May 30-July 14 World Cup and the test team for the Ashes beyond that.

"I'm just moving forward day to day, doing what I need to do to prepare to hopefully get another opportunity to play for Australia and if that's the World Cup and Ashes, so be it," Smith told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

"No doubt the English crowd will be incredibly hostile. I'm ready for that if that happens.

"I'll keep working hard and if I get that opportunity again, that'd be great."

Smith and Warner's bans will be lifted at the end of March, with Bancroft's expiring on December 29.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith said on Friday he had not been involved in planning to tamper with the ball during the Cape Town Test against South Africa but took responsibility as a leader for failing to put a stop to it.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith said on Friday he had not been involved in planning to tamper with the ball during the Cape Town Test against South Africa but took responsibility as a leader for failing to put a stop to it. Smith, along with vice-captain David Warner and opening batsman Cameron Bancroft, was suspended for his part in the ball-tampering incident which shocked the cricket world and torpedoed Australia's sporting reputation. Facing Australian media for the first time since his teary apology at a news conference at Sydney airport on March 29, Smith said he had learned of the plan when he overheard a conversation in the team's dressing room at Newlands. Also Read: From Australia's ball-tampering scandal to Serena's cheating row, here are top sports controversies of 2018 "I think it's been documented pretty heavily, sort of, what went on," he told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground. "For me in the room, I walked past something and had the opportunity to stop it and I didn't do it and that was my leadership failure. "It was the potential for something to happen and it went on and happened out in the field. "I had the opportunity to stop it at that point rather than say, 'I don’t want to know anything about it' and that was my failure of leadership. And you know I’ve taken responsibility for that." Smith declined to name the players involved but reiterated that he had told them, "I don't want to know about it", and then walked away. Smith has kept a low media profile since the scandal, despite playing at Twenty20 tournaments in Canada and the Caribbean, and turning out for his Sydney club side Sutherland. However, in recent weeks he has made gradual moves to rehabilitate his public image and joined his former Australia teammates at training sessions. Brand Power Smith has also tested the waters to see how his brand power has fared in the wake of the incident, linking up with the local arm of Britain's Vodafone Group to shoot an advertisement which played on his shame and hopes of redemption. The commercial, and Smith's involvement in it, was criticised by some media pundits and generated mixed responses on social media. Smith said he was getting paid for the campaign but also "putting forward" funds from it to Gotcha4Life, a local men's mental health charity. The 29-year-old added that it had been tough at times watching Australia play from the sidelines and said he was determined to break back into the one-day side for the May 30-July 14 World Cup and the test team for the Ashes beyond that. "I'm just moving forward day to day, doing what I need to do to prepare to hopefully get another opportunity to play for Australia and if that's the World Cup and Ashes, so be it," Smith told reporters at the Sydney Cricket Ground. "No doubt the English crowd will be incredibly hostile. I'm ready for that if that happens. "I'll keep working hard and if I get that opportunity again, that'd be great." Smith and Warner's bans will be lifted at the end of March, with Bancroft's expiring on December 29.

It was my 'leadership failure', says Steve Smith denying involvement in ball-tampering scandal

Australia captain Tim Paine was a relieved man as Australia registered a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-australia-thrash-india-to-win-perth-test-by-146-runs-184935">146-run victory over India</a> in the second Test match of a four-match series in Perth.

It is Australia's first&nbsp;win since the ball-tampering&nbsp;scandal, which included former captain Steve Smith, David Warner&nbsp;and&nbsp;Cameron Bancroft.

The Paine-led team marked a&nbsp;drought-breaking success,&nbsp;their&nbsp;first in seven Tests spanning almost 10 months.

It was Paine's first Test win in five matches since taking over from the suspended Steve Smith in South Africa, and also the first victory for new coach Justin Langer, coming in his hometown.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-we-thought-four-quicks-would-be-enough-says-virat-kohli-after-losing-perth-test-184960">'We thought four quicks would be enough,' says Virat Kohli after losing Perth Test</a>

In the post-match presentation, Paine said, "It's a big relief because the first Test win has taken a while."

India, chasing&nbsp;287 to win, the visitors resumed at 115 for five on the final day but lost their remaining wickets for just 21 runs in the morning session.

India&nbsp;were&nbsp;dismissed for 140, with spinner Nathan Lyon claiming 3-39 to finish with eight wickets for the match.&nbsp;

Paine, who was involved in a verbal spat with Indian counterpart Virat Kohli on the third and fourth days, said the overwhelming emotion was relief at finally being able to put a dark period in Australian cricket behind them.

Paine hailed his team for their performance, "We won the toss and decided to bat. We had our fingers crossed and hoped we play pretty well."

"It's been hard work - the first two Tests of this series have been really tough."

"We've got some inexperienced players in terms of Test matches played, to get a win like that against the best Test team in the world is going to give them a huge boost of confidence."

He especially mentioned the openers, "Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch getting us to none for 100 was brilliant batting and probably the difference between the two sides."

Paine also praised Nathan Lyon's performance, "It's great to have Lyon in our team. Every team would want to have him in their team. You can throw him the ball in any condition, at any end, any time against any team and he loves bowling to the best players in the world."

"It's a huge honour to captain the Australian side."

"Now to do it at the MCG for the Boxing Day Test is a special feeling. We all can't wait to get to Melbourne," concluded.

Australia captain Tim Paine was a relieved man as Australia registered a 146-run victory over India in the second Test match of a four-match series in Perth. It is Australia's first win since the ball-tampering scandal, which included former captain Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft.

Australia captain Tim Paine was a relieved man as Australia registered a 146-run victory over India in the second Test match of a four-match series in Perth. It is Australia's first win since the ball-tampering scandal, which included former captain Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft. The Paine-led team marked a drought-breaking success, their first in seven Tests spanning almost 10 months. It was Paine's first Test win in five matches since taking over from the suspended Steve Smith in South Africa, and also the first victory for new coach Justin Langer, coming in his hometown. Also Read: 'We thought four quicks would be enough,' says Virat Kohli after losing Perth Test In the post-match presentation, Paine said, "It's a big relief because the first Test win has taken a while." India, chasing 287 to win, the visitors resumed at 115 for five on the final day but lost their remaining wickets for just 21 runs in the morning session. India were dismissed for 140, with spinner Nathan Lyon claiming 3-39 to finish with eight wickets for the match. Paine, who was involved in a verbal spat with Indian counterpart Virat Kohli on the third and fourth days, said the overwhelming emotion was relief at finally being able to put a dark period in Australian cricket behind them. Paine hailed his team for their performance, "We won the toss and decided to bat. We had our fingers crossed and hoped we play pretty well." "It's been hard work - the first two Tests of this series have been really tough." "We've got some inexperienced players in terms of Test matches played, to get a win like that against the best Test team in the world is going to give them a huge boost of confidence." He especially mentioned the openers, "Marcus Harris and Aaron Finch getting us to none for 100 was brilliant batting and probably the difference between the two sides." Paine also praised Nathan Lyon's performance, "It's great to have Lyon in our team. Every team would want to have him in their team. You can throw him the ball in any condition, at any end, any time against any team and he loves bowling to the best players in the world." "It's a huge honour to captain the Australian side." "Now to do it at the MCG for the Boxing Day Test is a special feeling. We all can't wait to get to Melbourne," concluded.

'It's a big relief,' says Tim Paine as Australia win for first time since ball-tampering scandal

From Australia's ball-tampering scandal to Serena's cheating row, here are top sports controversies of 2018

In response to the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/smith-warner-bans-to-be-reviewed-this-week-reports-178166">Australian Cricketers' Association's plea</a> to bring <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=steve+smith">Steve Smith</a>, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=david+warner">David Warner</a> and Cameron Bancroft back before their original bans would end, Cricket Australia has released an official statement on Tuesday to deny it.

The trio was banned from state and international cricket for 12 months over the incident in South Africa in March, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months and after CA's ruling, they will have to serve their full bans.

CA interim chairman Earl Eddings said the board had "determined that it is not appropriate to make any changes to the sanctions handed down to the three players".

There has been pressure on the governing body to reinstate the players amid a recent poor run of results.

Eddings reinforced the unanimous decision of the Board stating: "Despite the absence of any recommendation regarding the sanctions in the recently released Ethics Centre Review, the Board has deliberated on the ACA's submission at length. We have reconsidered the sanctions as they apply to each of Steve, David and Cameron in light of the ACA's submission and the Ethics Centre Review and Recommendations." &nbsp; &nbsp;

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The Cricket Australia Board has released a statement in response to the Australian Cricketers' Association submission. <a href="https://t.co/9RyxC9V1fW">https://t.co/9RyxC9V1fW</a> <a href="https://t.co/H50HMmSSBE">pic.twitter.com/H50HMmSSBE</a>
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"The original decision of the Board to sanction the players was determined after rigorous discussion and consideration. CA maintains that both the length and nature of the sanctions remain an appropriate response in light of the considerable impact on the reputation of Australian cricket, here and abroad." &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Steve, David and Cameron are working hard to demonstrate their commitment to cricket and have our continued support to ensure their pathway to return is as smooth as possible." &nbsp;

"We believe the ongoing conversation about reducing the sanctions puts undue pressure on the three players – all of whom accepted the sanctions earlier this year - and the Australian men's cricket team. As such, the Cricket Australia Board doesn’t intend to consider further calls for amendments to the sanctions."

"Though we recognise that this decision will be disappointing for the ACA, we thank them for their submission. &nbsp;Our commitment to continue building a strong relationship between CA and the ACA in the interests of cricket in Australia remains and we look forward to meeting with them shortly to that end," concluded Eddings.

Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were found in breach of Article 2.3.5 of the CA Code of Conduct, namely that their conduct:&nbsp; 
(a) was contrary to the spirit of the game;&nbsp; 
(b) was unbecoming of a representative or official;&nbsp; 
(c) is or could be harmful to the interests of cricket; and/or&nbsp; 
(d) did bring the game of cricket into disrepute.

In response to the Australian Cricketers' Association's plea to bring Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft back before their original bans would end, Cricket Australia has released an official statement on Tuesday to deny it.

In response to the Australian Cricketers' Association's plea to bring Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft back before their original bans would end, Cricket Australia has released an official statement on Tuesday to deny it. The trio was banned from state and international cricket for 12 months over the incident in South Africa in March, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months and after CA's ruling, they will have to serve their full bans. CA interim chairman Earl Eddings said the board had "determined that it is not appropriate to make any changes to the sanctions handed down to the three players". There has been pressure on the governing body to reinstate the players amid a recent poor run of results. Eddings reinforced the unanimous decision of the Board stating: "Despite the absence of any recommendation regarding the sanctions in the recently released Ethics Centre Review, the Board has deliberated on the ACA's submission at length. We have reconsidered the sanctions as they apply to each of Steve, David and Cameron in light of the ACA's submission and the Ethics Centre Review and Recommendations." The Cricket Australia Board has released a statement in response to the Australian Cricketers' Association submission. https://t.co/9RyxC9V1fW pic.twitter.com/H50HMmSSBE — Cricket Australia (@CAComms) November 20, 2018 × "The original decision of the Board to sanction the players was determined after rigorous discussion and consideration. CA maintains that both the length and nature of the sanctions remain an appropriate response in light of the considerable impact on the reputation of Australian cricket, here and abroad." "Steve, David and Cameron are working hard to demonstrate their commitment to cricket and have our continued support to ensure their pathway to return is as smooth as possible." "We believe the ongoing conversation about reducing the sanctions puts undue pressure on the three players – all of whom accepted the sanctions earlier this year - and the Australian men's cricket team. As such, the Cricket Australia Board doesn’t intend to consider further calls for amendments to the sanctions." "Though we recognise that this decision will be disappointing for the ACA, we thank them for their submission. Our commitment to continue building a strong relationship between CA and the ACA in the interests of cricket in Australia remains and we look forward to meeting with them shortly to that end," concluded Eddings. Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were found in breach of Article 2.3.5 of the CA Code of Conduct, namely that their conduct: (a) was contrary to the spirit of the game; (b) was unbecoming of a representative or official; (c) is or could be harmful to the interests of cricket; and/or (d) did bring the game of cricket into disrepute.

No changes to Smith, Warner, Bancroft ball-tampering bans: Cricket Australia

Australia coach Justin Langer vowed Saturday to put a smile back into cricket as South African skipper Faf Du Plessis said he expects the sledging to be toned down in their one-day series.

The two sides meet in Perth on Sunday for the first time since the Test series in South Africa this year boiled over with Australian players attempting to alter the ball with sandpaper.

The cheating saw Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft banned, while David Lehmann quit as coach. Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland has since left and chairman David Peever fell on his sword on Thursday.

Langer, Lehmann's replacement, has pledged to change the win-at-all-costs culture and said he hoped the first game of the summer at home would be a step in winning back fans.

"It's sad, isn't it. Everyone seems to be at each other. There's lots of criticism," he said of the atmosphere surrounding Australian cricket.

"What we can do is we can prepare well, we can play good cricket, and be entertaining and put on a good show so Australians can start smiling a bit.

"One thing sport can do and the Australian cricket can do is put smiles on faces rather than everyone throwing stones at each other."

Australia have lost 16 of their past 18 one-day internationals and are desperate to get off on the right foot in Perth, with two more one-dayers and a Twenty20 against the Proteas to follow.

Du Plessis said he expected less verbal banter on Sunday than in the past.

"An Australia-South Africa series is always going to be competitive but I do suspect this series will be a little bit more toned down, especially from the Australian side," he said on Saturday.

"Not necessarily from a body language point of view, but maybe from a verbal point of view."

Despite Australia being without Smith and Warner and their poor one-day form, Du Plessis said his team won't be taking the home side lightly.

"Whenever you get a chance to play against Australia it feels like you're playing against a very good cricket team," he said.

"When you look at what they've got in their squad at the moment on paper there are some fantastic names there with the ball and with the bat."

Australia skipper Aaron Finch, who has been cleared to play after a scare on Friday when he was struck on the finger by a Mitchell Starc delivery, said he was confident their miserable run of form would end.

"If we can follow our process and do our basics well enough that (winning) will start taking care of itself," he said.

"If you start looking at the end result purely that's when you can make some errors in judgement and fall down that way."

Australia coach Justin Langer vowed Saturday to put a smile back into cricket as South African skipper Faf Du Plessis said he expects the sledging to be toned down in their one-day series.

Australia coach Justin Langer vowed Saturday to put a smile back into cricket as South African skipper Faf Du Plessis said he expects the sledging to be toned down in their one-day series. The two sides meet in Perth on Sunday for the first time since the Test series in South Africa this year boiled over with Australian players attempting to alter the ball with sandpaper. The cheating saw Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft banned, while David Lehmann quit as coach. Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland has since left and chairman David Peever fell on his sword on Thursday. Langer, Lehmann's replacement, has pledged to change the win-at-all-costs culture and said he hoped the first game of the summer at home would be a step in winning back fans. "It's sad, isn't it. Everyone seems to be at each other. There's lots of criticism," he said of the atmosphere surrounding Australian cricket. "What we can do is we can prepare well, we can play good cricket, and be entertaining and put on a good show so Australians can start smiling a bit. "One thing sport can do and the Australian cricket can do is put smiles on faces rather than everyone throwing stones at each other." Australia have lost 16 of their past 18 one-day internationals and are desperate to get off on the right foot in Perth, with two more one-dayers and a Twenty20 against the Proteas to follow. Du Plessis said he expected less verbal banter on Sunday than in the past. "An Australia-South Africa series is always going to be competitive but I do suspect this series will be a little bit more toned down, especially from the Australian side," he said on Saturday. "Not necessarily from a body language point of view, but maybe from a verbal point of view." Despite Australia being without Smith and Warner and their poor one-day form, Du Plessis said his team won't be taking the home side lightly. "Whenever you get a chance to play against Australia it feels like you're playing against a very good cricket team," he said. "When you look at what they've got in their squad at the moment on paper there are some fantastic names there with the ball and with the bat." Australia skipper Aaron Finch, who has been cleared to play after a scare on Friday when he was struck on the finger by a Mitchell Starc delivery, said he was confident their miserable run of form would end. "If we can follow our process and do our basics well enough that (winning) will start taking care of itself," he said. "If you start looking at the end result purely that's when you can make some errors in judgement and fall down that way."

Justin Langer vows to put smile back into Australian cricket

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

Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann said that he is worried about Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, who were banned recently for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal. He also mentioned that he hopes that all the three players will return to their international services after serving the ban.

Following the ball-tampering scandal that had stunned the cricket fraternity, Lehmann had stepped down from his position which was recently filled by Justin Langer.

In a recent interview with an Australia based radio channel, Lehmann&nbsp;said that all&nbsp;three players are fantastic and have paid the price.

Steve Smith and David Warner are serving a 12-month ban and the main culprit David Bancroft was banned for 9 months for his 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 strict punishments followed by Cricket Australia.

Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann said that all three players are fantastic and have paid the price for their deeds

Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann said that he is worried about Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, who were banned recently for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal. He also mentioned that he hopes that all the three players will return to their international services after serving the ban. Following the ball-tampering scandal that had stunned the cricket fraternity, Lehmann had stepped down from his position which was recently filled by Justin Langer. In a recent interview with an Australia based radio channel, Lehmann said that all three players are fantastic and have paid the price. Steve Smith and David Warner are serving a 12-month ban and the main culprit David Bancroft was banned for 9 months for his 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 strict punishments followed by Cricket Australia.

Worried about banned Smith, Warner and Cameron: Darren Lehmann

Former Australian captain of men's cricket Steve Smith is currently serving a 12-month ban for his 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.

On Friday, May 4, Steve Smith shared a picture with his wife Dani Willis and thanked fans and followers who have supported him during his difficult times through letters and emails.

"I have had some time away to come to terms with everything and now it’s time to get back into it. The amount of emails and letters I have received has been incredible and I have been extremely humbled by the enormous amount of support you have given me," said former Australian skipper Steve Smith.

He also said, "I now have a lot to do to earn back your trust."&nbsp

Here is the post:

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<blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/BiVyq5XBHc0/" data-instgrm-version="8" style=" background:#FFF border:0 border-radius:3px box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15) margin: 1px max-width:658px padding:0 width:99.375% width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px) width:calc(100% - 2px)">
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<div style=" background:url(data:image/pngbase64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACwAAAAsCAMAAAApWqozAAAABGdBTUEAALGPC/xhBQAAAAFzUkdCAK7OHOkAAAAMUExURczMzPf399fX1+bm5mzY9AMAAADiSURBVDjLvZXbEsMgCES5/P8/t9FuRVCRmU73JWlzosgSIIZURCjo/ad+EQJJB4Hv8BFt+IDpQoCx1wjOSBFhh2XssxEIYn3ulI/6MNReE07UIWJEv8UEOWDS88LY97kqyTliJKKtuYBbruAyVh5wOHiXmpi5we58Ek028czwyuQdLKPG1Bkb4NnM+VeAnfHqn1k4+GPT6uGQcvu2h2OVuIf/gWUFyy8OWEpdyZSa3aVCqpVoVvzZZ2VTnn2wU8qzVjDDetO90GSy9mVLqtgYSy231MxrY6I2gGqjrTY0L8fxCxfCBbhWrsYYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC) display:block height:44px margin:0 auto -44px position:relative top:-22px width:44px">&nbsp</div>
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<a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BiVyq5XBHc0/" style=" color:#000 font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px text-decoration:none word-wrap:break-word" target="_blank">It’s great to be back home in Australia. I have had some time away to come to terms with everything and now it’s time to get back into it. The amount of emails and letters I have received has been incredible and I have been extremely humbled by the enormous amount of support you have given me. I now have a lot to do to earn back your trust. To my Mum, Dad and Dani you have been my rock through this and I can’t thank you enough. Family is the most important thing in the world and I thank you for your love and support.</a>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px margin-bottom:0 margin-top:8px overflow:hidden padding:8px 0 7px text-align:center text-overflow:ellipsis white-space:nowrap">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/steve_smith49/" style=" color:#c9c8cd font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px font-style:normal font-weight:normal line-height:17px" target="_blank"> Steve Smith</a> (@steve_smith49) on <time datetime="2018-05-04T03:30:28+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif font-size:14px line-height:17px">May 3, 2018 at 8:30pm PDT</time>
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&nbsp

Steve Smith is currently serving a 12-month ban for his involvement in the ball-tampering scandal

Former Australian captain of men's cricket Steve Smith is currently serving a 12-month ban for his 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. On Friday, May 4, Steve Smith shared a picture with his wife Dani Willis and thanked fans and followers who have supported him during his difficult times through letters and emails. "I have had some time away to come to terms with everything and now it’s time to get back into it. The amount of emails and letters I have received has been incredible and I have been extremely humbled by the enormous amount of support you have given me," said former Australian skipper Steve Smith. He also said, "I now have a lot to do to earn back your trust." Here is the post: It’s great to be back home in Australia. I have had some time away to come to terms with everything and now it’s time to get back into it. The amount of emails and letters I have received has been incredible and I have been extremely humbled by the enormous amount of support you have given me. I now have a lot to do to earn back your trust. To my Mum, Dad and Dani you have been my rock through this and I can’t thank you enough. Family is the most important thing in the world and I thank you for your love and support. A post shared by Steve Smith (@steve_smith49) on May 3, 2018 at 8:30pm PDT ×

Have a lot to do to earn back trust: Steve Smith

Cricket Australia said today<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/in-absence-of-steve-smith-south-africa-destroy-australia-by-492-runs-in-last-test-128086"> former Australian Test opener </a>Justin Langer, 47, will takeover as head coach of the national team.

Langer's coaching job comes after Darren Lehmann stepped down as coach of the Australian team after the ball-tampering row in South Africa which led Steve Smith and David Warner to be banned by Cricket Australia. Cameron Bancroft was also banned for his part in the incident.

"Whilst Darren Lehmann was not due to complete his term until next year, we have had a succession plan in place for this role for some time," Cricket Australia (CA) CEO James Sutherland said.

"We firmly believe Justin is the right person to lead this team and have huge confidence in what he will bring to the role, " Sutherland added.

Read more:<a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/photos/in-pics%3A-meet-the-next-australia-cricket-coach-possible-contenders-132151#photo-132133">&nbsp;In pics: Meet the next Australia cricket coach possible contenders</a>

Langer was earlier the interim coach during the Caribbean series in 2016 and against Sri Lanka at home.

The new coach will be participating in a players' review launched by Cricket Australia after the ball-tampering row and will help bring up the "charter of behaviour" along with current Test captain Tim Paine and the national women's skipper Rachael Haynes along with a panel of ex-cricketers.

Langer's first coaching test will begin next month when Australia takes on England at home in an ODI series next month.

Langer's first coaching test will begin next month when Australia takes on England at home in an ODI series next month.

Cricket Australia said today former Australian Test opener Justin Langer, 47, will takeover as head coach of the national team. Langer's coaching job comes after Darren Lehmann stepped down as coach of the Australian team after the ball-tampering row in South Africa which led Steve Smith and David Warner to be banned by Cricket Australia. Cameron Bancroft was also banned for his part in the incident. "Whilst Darren Lehmann was not due to complete his term until next year, we have had a succession plan in place for this role for some time," Cricket Australia (CA) CEO James Sutherland said. "We firmly believe Justin is the right person to lead this team and have huge confidence in what he will bring to the role, " Sutherland added. Read more: In pics: Meet the next Australia cricket coach possible contenders Langer was earlier the interim coach during the Caribbean series in 2016 and against Sri Lanka at home. The new coach will be participating in a players' review launched by Cricket Australia after the ball-tampering row and will help bring up the "charter of behaviour" along with current Test captain Tim Paine and the national women's skipper Rachael Haynes along with a panel of ex-cricketers. Langer's first coaching test will begin next month when Australia takes on England at home in an ODI series next month.

Justin Langer to be new coach of Australia

Cricket Australia has released a statement that a decision will be taken on who will replace Darren Lehmann as coach of the national men’s team. The final decision will be out "in coming weeks," ahead of Qantas Tour to England, which is in early June.

Recently,&nbspDarren Lehmann had stepped down as the coach of Australia men's cricket team after the ball-tampering&nbspsaga which happened when team Australia&nbspwas touring to South Africa for a 4-match series.

The board members of Cricket Australia met on Friday to discuss the process to through which a new coach, as well as captain and deputy of men's ODI outfit, will be named.

Board chairman David Peever said recommendations for preferred candidates to fill those leadership positions will be sought from CA, with those names expected to be ratified and then publicly announced.

"The Board has asked management to provide recommendations regarding candidates for the men's head coach, ODI captain and ODI vice-captain," Peever said in a statement.

"The Board is anticipating receiving these recommendations in the coming weeks, with a view to making appointments ahead of the ODI tour to the UK.

"Once these appointments have been endorsed and finalised, announcements can then be made."

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Cricket Australia has confirmed that a decision on who will replace Darren Lehmann as coach of the national men’s team will be finalised "in coming weeks" <a href="https://t.co/4Dnjm42YC6">https://t.co/4Dnjm42YC6</a> <a href="https://t.co/9BSIGK5OOo">pic.twitter.com/9BSIGK5OOo</a>
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A few weeks back, 12 months bans were handed out to former captain Steve Smith, David Warner and also a 9-month ban was given to the main culprit Cameron Bancroft for their involvements in the ball-tampering scandal.

Cricket Australia has released a statement that a decision will be taken on who will replace Darren Lehmann as coach of the national men’s team

Cricket Australia has released a statement that a decision will be taken on who will replace Darren Lehmann as coach of the national men’s team. The final decision will be out "in coming weeks," ahead of Qantas Tour to England, which is in early June. Recently,&nbspDarren Lehmann had stepped down as the coach of Australia men's cricket team after the ball-tampering&nbspsaga which happened when team Australia&nbspwas touring to South Africa for a 4-match series. The board members of Cricket Australia met on Friday to discuss the process to through which a new coach, as well as captain and deputy of men's ODI outfit, will be named. Board chairman David Peever said recommendations for preferred candidates to fill those leadership positions will be sought from CA, with those names expected to be ratified and then publicly announced. "The Board has asked management to provide recommendations regarding candidates for the men's head coach, ODI captain and ODI vice-captain," Peever said in a statement. "The Board is anticipating receiving these recommendations in the coming weeks, with a view to making appointments ahead of the ODI tour to the UK. "Once these appointments have been endorsed and finalised, announcements can then be made." Cricket Australia has confirmed that a decision on who will replace Darren Lehmann as coach of the national men’s team will be finalised "in coming weeks" https://t.co/4Dnjm42YC6 pic.twitter.com/9BSIGK5OOo — cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) April 20, 2018 × A few weeks back, 12 months bans were handed out to former captain Steve Smith, David Warner and also a 9-month ban was given to the main culprit Cameron Bancroft for their involvements in the ball-tampering scandal.

Coach to be named 'in coming weeks': Cricket Australia

Australians are known for their "aggressive" and "brutal" style of playing cricket, however, for the first time in the proud history of baggy green&nbsp;Australian cricketers are saying - "I am deeply sorry."

A very surprising situation, when International Cricket Council(ICC) gave them a bit of leeway while punishing them for altering the condition of the ball in order to win the match, Cricket Australia went ahead and slapped the men in question - Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft- with stringent bans.&nbsp;

A 12-months ban for ball-tampering appears very harsh to some fans, let's take a look back when the "bully" Australians have tarnished the "gentleman's game". There is enough proof to nail the Aussies.

Not too long ago former Australian batsman Mark Waugh and legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne were involved in a betting scandal when they admitted to taking money to pass on pitch report to a bookie during Australia's tour of Sri Lanka in 1994. Both players were fined but to some extent, the incident was covered-up.

Steve Waugh, the architect of mental disintegration,&nbsp;now "deeply troubled" and has written a letter in the wake of the recent ball-tampering scandal to address the "heartbroken cricket followers worldwide" but his practice of making teasing remarks to an opposing player in order to disturb their concentration still haunts the cricketing world.

Darren Lehmann, who stepped down as the Australian coach with watery eyes was once found guilty of racism.

In 2003, during Australia's tour to Sri Lanka, Lehmann shouted "Cunts, cunts, fucking black cunts," while marching towards the dressing room after he had been run out. But the same Aussies looked for sympathy when the Monkeygate scandal broke out between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds in 2008.

The cricket fraternity, especially, Australians cried over Phil Hughes death, who died when a bouncer struck his neck during a domestic match in Sydney but the same Aussies greeted Virat Kohli with bouncers.

Australian antics does not end here, remember the Test match between Australia and India when Michael Slater forced umpire Venkatraghavan to falsely claim Dravid's catch in 2001.

And who can forget when Darryl Harper, an Australian umpire gave Sachin Tendulkar LBW on a ball which was above shoulder height - a bouncer.

David Warner who has now apologised for his involvement in the recent ball-tampering scandal, once punched an English player Joe Root in a pub in the United Kingdom in 2013 and defended himself by saying that the incident happened in aggression. Really?

"I understand the consequences now," said Steve Smith in the recent emotional media interaction but was he aware of the consequences when he looked towards the pavilion to get approval before reviewing a decision during their India's tour in 2017, later calling it a "brain fade" moment.

Australian cricket is littered with sledging incidents or "mental disintegration" in Aussie terms as players from South Africa, India, Sri Lanka, England and Pakistan would testify.

Watch the video of Rahul Dravid and&nbsp;Michael Slater incident:

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See how Australians mentally disintegrate opponents:

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Were they ever sorry? When they tried to "hijack" the mind by sledging and passing personal and derogatory comments on the opposition's wives and girl-friends? Which eventually is a far worse concept in cricket than ball-tampering for which the tarnished players are crying.

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Now, after the ball-tampering saga, the tarnished players are crying, but the incident seems trivial in comparison to what they have done earlier against other teams

Australians are known for their "aggressive" and "brutal" style of playing cricket, however, for the first time in the proud history of baggy green Australian cricketers are saying - "I am deeply sorry." A very surprising situation, when International Cricket Council(ICC) gave them a bit of leeway while punishing them for altering the condition of the ball in order to win the match, Cricket Australia went ahead and slapped the men in question - Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft- with stringent bans. A 12-months ban for ball-tampering appears very harsh to some fans, let's take a look back when the "bully" Australians have tarnished the "gentleman's game". There is enough proof to nail the Aussies. Not too long ago former Australian batsman Mark Waugh and legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne were involved in a betting scandal when they admitted to taking money to pass on pitch report to a bookie during Australia's tour of Sri Lanka in 1994. Both players were fined but to some extent, the incident was covered-up. Steve Waugh, the architect of mental disintegration, now "deeply troubled" and has written a letter in the wake of the recent ball-tampering scandal to address the "heartbroken cricket followers worldwide" but his practice of making teasing remarks to an opposing player in order to disturb their concentration still haunts the cricketing world. Darren Lehmann, who stepped down as the Australian coach with watery eyes was once found guilty of racism. In 2003, during Australia's tour to Sri Lanka, Lehmann shouted "Cunts, cunts, fucking black cunts," while marching towards the dressing room after he had been run out. But the same Aussies looked for sympathy when the Monkeygate scandal broke out between Harbhajan Singh and Andrew Symonds in 2008. The cricket fraternity, especially, Australians cried over Phil Hughes death, who died when a bouncer struck his neck during a domestic match in Sydney but the same Aussies greeted Virat Kohli with bouncers. Australian antics does not end here, remember the Test match between Australia and India when Michael Slater forced umpire Venkatraghavan to falsely claim Dravid's catch in 2001. And who can forget when Darryl Harper, an Australian umpire gave Sachin Tendulkar LBW on a ball which was above shoulder height - a bouncer. David Warner who has now apologised for his involvement in the recent ball-tampering scandal, once punched an English player Joe Root in a pub in the United Kingdom in 2013 and defended himself by saying that the incident happened in aggression. Really? "I understand the consequences now," said Steve Smith in the recent emotional media interaction but was he aware of the consequences when he looked towards the pavilion to get approval before reviewing a decision during their India's tour in 2017, later calling it a "brain fade" moment. Australian cricket is littered with sledging incidents or "mental disintegration" in Aussie terms as players from South Africa, India, Sri Lanka, England and Pakistan would testify. Watch the video of Rahul Dravid and Michael Slater incident: × See how Australians mentally disintegrate opponents: × Were they ever sorry? When they tried to "hijack" the mind by sledging and passing personal and derogatory comments on the opposition's wives and girl-friends? Which eventually is a far worse concept in cricket than ball-tampering for which the tarnished players are crying. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: 'Mental disintegration' Steve Waugh style comes back to haunt Australia

Cricket Australia has banned Steve Smith and David Warner for 12 months and a 9-month ban has been given to Cameron Bancroft after the ball-tampering row which has engulfed the cricket world in the Australia-South Africa series.

Following an investigation, Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland apologised and eventually handed out the punishments to the tarnished players in the wake of the ball-tampering row.

In the statement of the investigation report, Cricket Australia has mentioned various points which includes how the future of the players is going to shape up.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/key-highlights-of-cricket-australia-statement-on-ball-tampering-investigation-126961">Key highlights of Cricket Australia statement on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/key-highlights-of-cricket-australia-statement-on-ball-tampering-investigation-126961">ball-tampering</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/key-highlights-of-cricket-australia-statement-on-ball-tampering-investigation-126961"> investigation</a>

The report says, "Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft will not be considered for team leadership positions until a minimum of 12 months after the conclusion of their respective suspensions from international and domestic cricket."

<img alt="cricket australia.JPG" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="https://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/cricket%20australia.JPG" width="770" />

Smith and Bancroft will be given&nbsp;leadership roles only a year after they complete their tenure of punishments -- which means not before&nbsp;March 28, 2020.

They may resume playing cricket from March 29, 2019, but won't be considered for leadership roles until one year.

It further added, "Any consideration of future leadership would be conditional on acceptance by fans and the public, form and authority among the playing group."

Cricket Australia Chairman, David Peever said, "These are significant penalties for professional players and the Board does not impose them lightly. It is hoped that following a period of suspension, the players will be able to return to playing the game they love and eventually rebuild their careers."

Cricket Australia CEO, James Sutherland said, "I am satisfied that the sanctions in this case properly reflect a balance between the need to protect the integrity and reputation of the game and the need to maintain the possibility of redemption for the individuals involved, all of whom have learned difficult lessons through these events."

Any leadership role, CA added, would be 'conditional on acceptance by fans and the public'

Cricket Australia has banned Steve Smith and David Warner for 12 months and a 9-month ban has been given to Cameron Bancroft after the ball-tampering row which has engulfed the cricket world in the Australia-South Africa series. Following an investigation, Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland apologised and eventually handed out the punishments to the tarnished players in the wake of the ball-tampering row. In the statement of the investigation report, Cricket Australia has mentioned various points which includes how the future of the players is going to shape up. Key highlights of Cricket Australia statement on ball-tampering investigation The report says, "Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft will not be considered for team leadership positions until a minimum of 12 months after the conclusion of their respective suspensions from international and domestic cricket." Smith and Bancroft will be given leadership roles only a year after they complete their tenure of punishments -- which means not before March 28, 2020. They may resume playing cricket from March 29, 2019, but won't be considered for leadership roles until one year. It further added, "Any consideration of future leadership would be conditional on acceptance by fans and the public, form and authority among the playing group." Cricket Australia Chairman, David Peever said, "These are significant penalties for professional players and the Board does not impose them lightly. It is hoped that following a period of suspension, the players will be able to return to playing the game they love and eventually rebuild their careers." Cricket Australia CEO, James Sutherland said, "I am satisfied that the sanctions in this case properly reflect a balance between the need to protect the integrity and reputation of the game and the need to maintain the possibility of redemption for the individuals involved, all of whom have learned difficult lessons through these events."

No leadership role for Smith, Bancroft for 1 year after ban ends: Cricket Australia

An emotional Cameron Bancroft asked for forgiveness Thursday over his part in a ball-tampering scandal, saying he was ashamed of himself, but refused to comment on the role David Warner played.

Bancroft was banned for nine months after using sandpaper to scratch the surface of the ball during the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town in an incident that sent shockwaves through the sport and that he said he would regret "for the rest of his life".

He then tried to hide the evidence down his trousers, only to be caught on camera.

The 25-year-old opening batsman, who has played just eight Tests, will also be required to undertake 100 hours of voluntary service in community cricket.

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"It is something I will regret for the rest of my life." 
 
Cameron Bancroft apologises for his part in the ball-tampering incident, for which he was given a nine month ban.<a href="https://t.co/dtB8CMWo5d">https://t.co/dtB8CMWo5d</a> <a href="https://t.co/BKrXmflueC">pic.twitter.com/BKrXmflueC</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/979272570523570178?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 29, 2018</a></blockquote>
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"It is something I will regret for the rest of my life. All I can do in the short term is ask for forgiveness," Bancroft, who was close to tears, told reporters in Perth after arriving home from Johannesburg.

"I feel like I've let everyone down in Australia and I'm not proud of that, it will take time for that to heal and earn the respect back.

"Through this whole experience and whirlwind few days it's been obvious to see how much the game means to Australia and the public, and we are representations of that. It's been a big wake up call for what that means."

Cricket Australia said Bancroft had attempted to "artificially alter the condition of the ball using sandpaper", with the aim being to generate more swing for Australia's bowlers.

Warner, who was also sent home and banned for a year, was charged with developing the plot and instructing Bancroft to carry it out.

Bancroft said it did want to comment on other players, and denied he had ever tampered with a ball before.

"I'm not here to comment about other players. I want to show how sorry I am, at the end of the day they are my actions and I am accountable," he said.&nbsp

"I have never ever been involved in tampering with a ball (before now) ... it compromises my values and what I stand for as a player and a person."

He declined to say whether he felt his ban was too harsh or whether he planned to appeal, only that he respected the process and "I will work with my manager and we'll move forward with that".

Cameron Bancroft asked for forgiveness Thursday over his part in a ball-tampering scandal, saying he was ashamed of himself, but refused to comment on the role David Warner played

An emotional Cameron Bancroft asked for forgiveness Thursday over his part in a ball-tampering scandal, saying he was ashamed of himself, but refused to comment on the role David Warner played. Bancroft was banned for nine months after using sandpaper to scratch the surface of the ball during the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town in an incident that sent shockwaves through the sport and that he said he would regret "for the rest of his life". He then tried to hide the evidence down his trousers, only to be caught on camera. The 25-year-old opening batsman, who has played just eight Tests, will also be required to undertake 100 hours of voluntary service in community cricket. "It is something I will regret for the rest of my life." Cameron Bancroft apologises for his part in the ball-tampering incident, for which he was given a nine month ban.https://t.co/dtB8CMWo5d pic.twitter.com/BKrXmflueC — ICC (@ICC) March 29, 2018 × "It is something I will regret for the rest of my life. All I can do in the short term is ask for forgiveness," Bancroft, who was close to tears, told reporters in Perth after arriving home from Johannesburg. "I feel like I've let everyone down in Australia and I'm not proud of that, it will take time for that to heal and earn the respect back. "Through this whole experience and whirlwind few days it's been obvious to see how much the game means to Australia and the public, and we are representations of that. It's been a big wake up call for what that means." Cricket Australia said Bancroft had attempted to "artificially alter the condition of the ball using sandpaper", with the aim being to generate more swing for Australia's bowlers. Warner, who was also sent home and banned for a year, was charged with developing the plot and instructing Bancroft to carry it out. Bancroft said it did want to comment on other players, and denied he had ever tampered with a ball before. "I'm not here to comment about other players. I want to show how sorry I am, at the end of the day they are my actions and I am accountable," he said. "I have never ever been involved in tampering with a ball (before now) ... it compromises my values and what I stand for as a player and a person." He declined to say whether he felt his ban was too harsh or whether he planned to appeal, only that he respected the process and "I will work with my manager and we'll move forward with that".

Ball-tampering row: Emotional Bancroft asks for forgiveness

Coach Darren Lehmann appears to have survived the ball-tampering scandal that has rocked Australian cricket, even as the win-at-all-costs mentality he instilled in the team comes under fresh scrutiny.

Lehmann was hailed as a saviour when he took over in 2013, but critics now accuse him of overseeing a toxic culture that has dented the reputation of the famed Baggy Green cap.

After being appointed, Lehmann's response when asked to list his top three priorities was telling:&nbsp

"Probably win, win, win, for a start," he told reporters.

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<h5>'Probably win, win, win, for a start,' Lehmann told reporters when he was asked, after he had been appointed coach, what his priorities were</h5>
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Cricket Australia (CA) had other ideas when it gave him the job.&nbsp

"Discipline, consistency of behaviour and accountability for performance are all key ingredients that need to improve," chief executive James Sutherland said at the time.

"And we see that the head coach is ultimately responsible for that."

If part of Lehmann's brief was to improve the Australian team's behaviour, there is little doubt he has failed.

'Out of control' 
Players were once considered role models for children, but the situation has become so bad that CA is setting up an independent review into the team's conduct and culture.

Even Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has weighed in to criticise the practice of sledging -- taunting opponents verbally with the aim of distracting them.

"It has gotten right out of control. It should have no place," Turnbull told reporters this week, lamenting the demise of a sport once regarded as the epitome of fair play.

CA insists Lehmann had no prior knowledge of the plot to doctor the ball in the third Test against the Proteas.

But Australian Broadcasting Corporation senior cricket commentator Jim Maxwell said the coach had to accept some blame for an "arrogant" team culture where some players felt cheating was preferable to losing honourably.

"He's done a very good job with the side but has a very narrow view of the way players should conduct themselves," Maxwell said.

"Teams can no longer get away with being in the face of the opposition in the way they have in recent years."

Boof and the boys 
Lehmann became national coach in dramatic circumstances after Australia sacked the first foreigner to hold the post, Mickey Arthur, on the eve of the Ashes.

A respected former batsman who played 27 Tests and 117 one-dayers for Australia, he was seen as an antidote to the disciplinarian Arthur.

Whereas his South African predecessor asked players to provide written self assessments, Lehmann was an insider who had come through the Australian ranks.

A clue to his knockabout appeal lies in his nickname "Boof", short for boofhead -- Australian slang for an amiable prankster, one of the boys in the dressing room.

"It's important to talk about the game whether it's with a beer or a Diet Coke," Lehmann said after taking the job.

Australia lost Lehmann's first Ashes series in charge but later in 2013, after he had stamped his mark on the team, they crushed England 5-0 in ruthless fashion.

While the plaudits rained down, there was also discomfort among some Australian fans at their team's conduct, particularly Lehmann's baiting of England paceman Stuart Broad.

"I hope the Australian public give it to him (Broad) right from the word go for the whole summer and I hope he cries and goes home," he said in a taunting tone not heard before from an Australian coach.

It was a dark side Lehmann also displayed as a player in 2003, when he yelled a racial insult in the dressing room after being dismissed in a one-day international against Sri Lanka.

Under Lehmann, unsavoury antics have become common as players took the Steve Waugh-era goal of "mental disintegration" and turbo-charged it with vitriol.

It has become such a part of the game-plan that before the current tour of South Africa, the Australians asked host broadcasters to turn down the stumps mic between balls so their jibes would not be recorded.

The Australians have been successful under Lehmann, with a Test record of 30 wins, 19 losses and eight draws under his stewardship.

But as Cricket Australia has belatedly acknowledged with its culture review, winning is not everything and changes are needed in the dressing room, with or without Lehmann.

Lehmann was hailed as a saviour when he took over in 2013, but critics now accuse him of overseeing a toxic culture that has dented the reputation of the famed Baggy Green cap

Coach Darren Lehmann appears to have survived the ball-tampering scandal that has rocked Australian cricket, even as the win-at-all-costs mentality he instilled in the team comes under fresh scrutiny. Lehmann was hailed as a saviour when he took over in 2013, but critics now accuse him of overseeing a toxic culture that has dented the reputation of the famed Baggy Green cap. After being appointed, Lehmann's response when asked to list his top three priorities was telling: "Probably win, win, win, for a start," he told reporters. 'Probably win, win, win, for a start,' Lehmann told reporters when he was asked, after he had been appointed coach, what his priorities were × Cricket Australia (CA) had other ideas when it gave him the job. "Discipline, consistency of behaviour and accountability for performance are all key ingredients that need to improve," chief executive James Sutherland said at the time. "And we see that the head coach is ultimately responsible for that." If part of Lehmann's brief was to improve the Australian team's behaviour, there is little doubt he has failed. 'Out of control' Players were once considered role models for children, but the situation has become so bad that CA is setting up an independent review into the team's conduct and culture. Even Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has weighed in to criticise the practice of sledging -- taunting opponents verbally with the aim of distracting them. "It has gotten right out of control. It should have no place," Turnbull told reporters this week, lamenting the demise of a sport once regarded as the epitome of fair play. CA insists Lehmann had no prior knowledge of the plot to doctor the ball in the third Test against the Proteas. But Australian Broadcasting Corporation senior cricket commentator Jim Maxwell said the coach had to accept some blame for an "arrogant" team culture where some players felt cheating was preferable to losing honourably. "He's done a very good job with the side but has a very narrow view of the way players should conduct themselves," Maxwell said. "Teams can no longer get away with being in the face of the opposition in the way they have in recent years." Boof and the boys Lehmann became national coach in dramatic circumstances after Australia sacked the first foreigner to hold the post, Mickey Arthur, on the eve of the Ashes. A respected former batsman who played 27 Tests and 117 one-dayers for Australia, he was seen as an antidote to the disciplinarian Arthur. Whereas his South African predecessor asked players to provide written self assessments, Lehmann was an insider who had come through the Australian ranks. A clue to his knockabout appeal lies in his nickname "Boof", short for boofhead -- Australian slang for an amiable prankster, one of the boys in the dressing room. "It's important to talk about the game whether it's with a beer or a Diet Coke," Lehmann said after taking the job. Australia lost Lehmann's first Ashes series in charge but later in 2013, after he had stamped his mark on the team, they crushed England 5-0 in ruthless fashion. While the plaudits rained down, there was also discomfort among some Australian fans at their team's conduct, particularly Lehmann's baiting of England paceman Stuart Broad. "I hope the Australian public give it to him (Broad) right from the word go for the whole summer and I hope he cries and goes home," he said in a taunting tone not heard before from an Australian coach. It was a dark side Lehmann also displayed as a player in 2003, when he yelled a racial insult in the dressing room after being dismissed in a one-day international against Sri Lanka. Under Lehmann, unsavoury antics have become common as players took the Steve Waugh-era goal of "mental disintegration" and turbo-charged it with vitriol. It has become such a part of the game-plan that before the current tour of South Africa, the Australians asked host broadcasters to turn down the stumps mic between balls so their jibes would not be recorded. The Australians have been successful under Lehmann, with a Test record of 30 wins, 19 losses and eight draws under his stewardship. But as Cricket Australia has belatedly acknowledged with its culture review, winning is not everything and changes are needed in the dressing room, with or without Lehmann.

Win, win, win: How the Lehmann ethos hurt Australian cricket

One year bans will be handed out to Steve Smith and David Warner in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal, Cricket Australia said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Cameron Bancroft will be handed a nine-month ban.

On Tuesday Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland apologised for the ball-tampering row which has engulfed the cricket world in the Australia-South Africa series.

Addressing the press conference on the ball-tampering row, Sutherland said offences go beyond technicalities.

"Only Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner were aware of the ball-tampering plan," Cricket Australia's CEO said.

"All three players reported will leave South Africa on Wednesday and new replacements will come in," he added.

Sutherland also said that the coach Darren Lehmann will continue as coach of the team as he had no knowledge of the ball-tampering incident which occurred in the third Test at Cape Town on Saturday

Sutherland said the Australian coach had no knowledge of the ball-tampering incident which occurred in the third Test at Cape Town on Saturday.

A year bans will be handed out to Steve Smith and David Warner in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal: Reports

One year bans will be handed out to Steve Smith and David Warner in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal, Cricket Australia said on Wednesday. Cameron Bancroft will be handed a nine-month ban. On Tuesday Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland apologised for the ball-tampering row which has engulfed the cricket world in the Australia-South Africa series. Addressing the press conference on the ball-tampering row, Sutherland said offences go beyond technicalities. "Only Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner were aware of the ball-tampering plan," Cricket Australia's CEO said. "All three players reported will leave South Africa on Wednesday and new replacements will come in," he added. Sutherland also said that the coach Darren Lehmann will continue as coach of the team as he had no knowledge of the ball-tampering incident which occurred in the third Test at Cape Town on Saturday Sutherland said the Australian coach had no knowledge of the ball-tampering incident which occurred in the third Test at Cape Town on Saturday.

1-year ban for Australia's Smith, Warner; 9 months for Bancroft: Cricket Australia

Cricket <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/sports/australia-incredibly-stupid---ex-south-africa-skipper-ali-bacher-126656">Australia CEO James Sutherland </a>today apologised for the ball-tampering row which has engulfed the cricket world in the Australia-South Africa series.

Addressing&nbsp;the press conference on the ball-tampering row, Sutherland said offences go beyond technicalities.

"Only Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner were aware of the ball-tampering plan," Cricket Australia's CEO said.

"All three players reported will leave South Africa on Wednesday and new replacements will come in," he added.

Sutherland said Cricket Australia will review the case and further sanctions will be announced in the next 24 hours.

Sutherland asserted that coach Darren Lehmann will continue as coach of the team. Sutherland said the Australian coach had no knowledge of the ball-tampering incident which occurred in the third Test at Cape Town on Saturday.

 
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Sutherland said Cricket Australia will review the case and further sanctions will be announced in the next 24 hours

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland today apologised for the ball-tampering row which has engulfed the cricket world in the Australia-South Africa series. Addressing the press conference on the ball-tampering row, Sutherland said offences go beyond technicalities. "Only Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner were aware of the ball-tampering plan," Cricket Australia's CEO said. "All three players reported will leave South Africa on Wednesday and new replacements will come in," he added. Sutherland said Cricket Australia will review the case and further sanctions will be announced in the next 24 hours. Sutherland asserted that coach Darren Lehmann will continue as coach of the team. Sutherland said the Australian coach had no knowledge of the ball-tampering incident which occurred in the third Test at Cape Town on Saturday.

Steve Smith, Bancroft and Warner to return home from South Africa: Cricket Australia CEO Sutherland

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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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

India spinner Harbhajan Singh today slammed the ICC for letting off Australian opener Cameron Bancroft with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-banned-for-one-test-fined-100-match-fee-icc-37030">only a fine of 75 </a>per cent of his match fee and not a ban, despite his role in the ball tampering scandal in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town.

Harbhajan Singh drew attention to the 2001 South Africa Test where he along with Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly, Shiv Sunder Das and Deep Dasgupta,were banned for at least one Test by match referee Mike Denness for various offences.

He also referred to the 2008 Sydney Test against Australia, infamously described as Monkey gate, where he was banned for three Tests for an alleged racial slur against Andrew Symonds.

Harbhajan Singh wrote on Twitter:

&quot;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,&quot; he tweeted. 
&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
&mdash; Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/977911377447677953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Former England captain Michael Vaughan was also critical of the ICC&#39;s decision.

&quot;1 Match Ban &amp; 100 % March fee Fine for Smith #ffs ... 75% match fee fine for Bancroft and some bloody De merit points for Bancroft ... Pathetic penalties for CHEATING ... Surely this moment was the time to set a precedent ... !!?? All the team should be penalised,&quot; he wrote in his handle.

Australian captain Smith was today handed a one-match suspension and fined 100 percent of his match fee after he owned up to a ball-tampering conspiracy in South Africa.

Bancroft was fined 75 per cent of his match fee and handed three demerit points for breaching Level 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third day&#39;s play.

The incident that led to the charges being laid took place during South Africa&#39;s innings yesterday afternoon when Bancroft was seen on television holding a foreign object while rubbing the ball, before hiding the yellow object in his pocket, and then inside his trousers. 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

India spinner Harbhajan Singh criticised the ICC for letting off Australian opener Cameron Bancroft with only a fine of 75% of his match fee and not a ban, despite his role in the ball tampering scandal

India spinner Harbhajan Singh today slammed the ICC for letting off Australian opener Cameron Bancroft with only a fine of 75 per cent of his match fee and not a ban, despite his role in the ball tampering scandal in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. Harbhajan Singh drew attention to the 2001 South Africa Test where he along with Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly, Shiv Sunder Das and Deep Dasgupta,were banned for at least one Test by match referee Mike Denness for various offences. He also referred to the 2008 Sydney Test against Australia, infamously described as Monkey gate, where he was banned for three Tests for an alleged racial slur against Andrew Symonds. Harbhajan Singh wrote on Twitter: "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," he tweeted. 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) March 25, 2018 × Former England captain Michael Vaughan was also critical of the ICC's decision. "1 Match Ban & 100 % March fee Fine for Smith #ffs ... 75% match fee fine for Bancroft and some bloody De merit points for Bancroft ... Pathetic penalties for CHEATING ... Surely this moment was the time to set a precedent ... !!?? All the team should be penalised," he wrote in his handle. Australian captain Smith was today handed a one-match suspension and fined 100 percent of his match fee after he owned up to a ball-tampering conspiracy in South Africa. Bancroft was fined 75 per cent of his match fee and handed three demerit points for breaching Level 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third day's play. The incident that led to the charges being laid took place during South Africa's innings yesterday afternoon when Bancroft was seen on television holding a foreign object while rubbing the ball, before hiding the yellow object in his pocket, and then inside his trousers. (With inputs from PTI)

Harbhajan Singh slams ICC after decision on Smith, Bancroft

Australian cricket team player Steve Smith, who stepped down from the captain&#39;s post today, has been given a one-match suspension and fined 100 per cent of his match fee for his role in the ball-tampering incident.

ICC chief executive David Richardson informed that Smith had accepted the charge.

&ldquo;The decision made by the leadership group of the Australian team to act in this way is clearly contrary to the spirit of the game, risks causing significant damage to the integrity of the match, the players and the sport itself and is therefore &lsquo;serious&rsquo; in nature,&quot; ICC chief executive David Richardson said.

&quot;As captain, Steve Smith must take full responsibility for the actions of his players and it is appropriate that he be suspended,&quot; he added.

Meanwhile, Australia opener Cameron Bancroft has been fined 75 per cent of his match fee and handed three demerit points.

Bancroft was caught on camera tampering with the ball on day three of the test.

Cameron Bancroft has been fined 75 per cent of his match fee

Australian cricket team player Steve Smith, who stepped down from the captain's post today, has been given a one-match suspension and fined 100 per cent of his match fee for his role in the ball-tampering incident. ICC chief executive David Richardson informed that Smith had accepted the charge. “The decision made by the leadership group of the Australian team to act in this way is clearly contrary to the spirit of the game, risks causing significant damage to the integrity of the match, the players and the sport itself and is therefore ‘serious’ in nature," ICC chief executive David Richardson said. "As captain, Steve Smith must take full responsibility for the actions of his players and it is appropriate that he be suspended," he added. Meanwhile, Australia opener Cameron Bancroft has been fined 75 per cent of his match fee and handed three demerit points. Bancroft was caught on camera tampering with the ball on day three of the test.

Steve Smith banned for one test, fined 100% match fee: ICC 

Getting whacked on the hand by a Cameron Bancroft shot would not keep Steve Smith from the Boxing Day test against England, the Australia captain said on Monday.

Smith was struck on the right hand by a Bancroft shot while standing at the back of the batting nets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday ahead of the fourth test in the series.

The 28-year-old said he had been in pain on Sunday and again on Monday when he was batting during training but it would not affect him when he leads his side out on Tuesday as they continue their push for a series whitewash.

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&quot;It was a little bit sore today playing a few different shots&quot; he told reporters. &quot;But I&#39;ll be able to deal with it and I&#39;ll get on with it.

&quot;Maybe I&#39;ll just have to use a bit more of my top hand throughout the game, a bit less wristy.

&quot;I copped a few (on the right hand) in the nets in Perth and a few more in the game. It just seems to be whenever you&#39;re getting hit in a spot - it just continually gets hit.&quot;

Australia have already regained the Ashes after an innings and 41-run victory in the third test in Perth last week gave them an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series.

Smith said that Bancroft had apologised profusely for the incident.

&quot;I didn&#39;t give him much (initially). He kept coming up ... it&#39;s all good, accidents happen,&quot; Smith said.

The Australians had been forced to make one change from the side that hammered England in Perth to seal the series with Mitchell Starc ruled out due to a heel injury and replaced by Jackson Bird.

While Starc had been instrumental in regaining the trophy with his express pace, late swing and aggression, Bird was more than capable of stepping into fill his shows, Smith said, even if the pitch was not expected to be overly helpful to the bowlers.

&quot;It looks pretty flat. It doesn&#39;t look like there will be great deal of sideways movement, maybe a bit of reverse swing as the game goes on,&quot; he said.

&quot;Hopefully we can get the ball reversing and hopefully there&#39;s a little bit of spin for Nath (Nathan Lyon).

&quot;We&#39;ve been able to get results here in the last couple of years. We&#39;re going to have work hard, first-innings runs are going to be crucial again.

&quot;We&#39;ve now got an opportunity to keep winning. That&#39;s been my message to the boys, don&#39;t worry about 5-0 at this stage.

&quot;You&#39;ve got to win this one first.&quot;

Steve Smith was struck on the right hand by a Cameron Bancroft shot while standing at the back of the batting nets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday

Getting whacked on the hand by a Cameron Bancroft shot would not keep Steve Smith from the Boxing Day test against England, the Australia captain said on Monday. Smith was struck on the right hand by a Bancroft shot while standing at the back of the batting nets at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Sunday ahead of the fourth test in the series. The 28-year-old said he had been in pain on Sunday and again on Monday when he was batting during training but it would not affect him when he leads his side out on Tuesday as they continue their push for a series whitewash. Maybe I'll just have to use a bit more of my top hand throughout the game, a bit less wristy' × "It was a little bit sore today playing a few different shots" he told reporters. "But I'll be able to deal with it and I'll get on with it. "Maybe I'll just have to use a bit more of my top hand throughout the game, a bit less wristy. "I copped a few (on the right hand) in the nets in Perth and a few more in the game. It just seems to be whenever you're getting hit in a spot - it just continually gets hit." Australia have already regained the Ashes after an innings and 41-run victory in the third test in Perth last week gave them an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match series. Smith said that Bancroft had apologised profusely for the incident. "I didn't give him much (initially). He kept coming up ... it's all good, accidents happen," Smith said. The Australians had been forced to make one change from the side that hammered England in Perth to seal the series with Mitchell Starc ruled out due to a heel injury and replaced by Jackson Bird. While Starc had been instrumental in regaining the trophy with his express pace, late swing and aggression, Bird was more than capable of stepping into fill his shows, Smith said, even if the pitch was not expected to be overly helpful to the bowlers. "It looks pretty flat. It doesn't look like there will be great deal of sideways movement, maybe a bit of reverse swing as the game goes on," he said. "Hopefully we can get the ball reversing and hopefully there's a little bit of spin for Nath (Nathan Lyon). "We've been able to get results here in the last couple of years. We're going to have work hard, first-innings runs are going to be crucial again. "We've now got an opportunity to keep winning. That's been my message to the boys, don't worry about 5-0 at this stage. "You've got to win this one first."

4th Ashes Test: Hand hurt but no worries, says Australia captain Steve Smith

Australia cruised to a crushing 10-wicket win over England to go one-up in the Ashes series in the opening Test at the Gabba on Monday, with captain Steve Smith praising his team&#39;s character.

Openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft added to England&#39;s agony by peeling off the required runs without the loss of a wicket before lunch on the final day.

Warner finished unbeaten on 87 off 119 balls with newcomer Bancroft hitting the winning runs to remain 82 not out off 182 balls in Australia&#39;s 173 without loss.

In the process, they broke an 87-year-old Test record for the all-time highest unbeaten opening partnership in a successful Test chase.

&quot;We had to show some really good character throughout. Obviously losing the toss, and the wicket was a lot slower than we anticipated it would be. We had to work really hard,&quot; said Australian captain Steve Smith.

&quot;I&#39;m pleased with the way we have played. Bowling first at The Gabba, it&#39;s hard. The bowlers had to be on. The way we pulled it back to win the position we were in it&#39;s extremely pleasing. I&#39;m proud of the way the boys fought.&quot;

The Australians only needed 56 runs on the final morning go one up after England imploded on Sunday&#39;s fourth day.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/cricket/cricket-australia-on-brink-of-victory-after-england-crumble-25171" target="_blank">Also read: Australia on brink of victory after England crumble</a>

England captain Joe Root said the result did not tell the full story.

&quot;For three days we were excellent. Bar Steve&#39;s knock we were right in it,&quot; he said, referring to Smith&#39;s battling first innings century.

&quot;It&#39;s frustrating. We have to move on quickly and make sure we don&#39;t make the same mistakes in Adelaide.&quot;

It was Warner&#39;s 25th Test fifty and ninth in the Ashes, while debutant Bancroft posted his first half-century in only his second Test innings.

&quot;It was good fun, to share a good partnership was nice. To get the win, in the end, was good,&quot; said Bancroft, who was allegedly headbutted by England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow in a late-night altercation in Perth earlier in the tour.

An England and Wales Cricket Board statement confirmed team management have asked Bairstow about the alleged incident. Warner said it was great to get the win without losing a wicket.

&quot;That&#39;s what we cherish, coming out being disciplined to try and get the job done as best as possible,&quot; he said.

England&#39;s doleful defeat was played to the background sounds of the traveling Barmy Army supporters singing &#39;We&#39;ll Take the (Ashes) Urn Home&#39; in the sparsely-populated Gabba ground.

It was an attritional battle between the traditional rivals over the first three days of the Test, raising England&#39;s hopes of a first win at the ground in just over three decades.

But skipper Smith&#39;s match-defining unbeaten 141 over eight-and-a-half hours to give Australia a 26-run innings lead and Josh Hazlewood&#39;s two late wickets on Saturday swung the momentum firmly Australia&#39;s way.

England were knocked over for 195 off 71.4 overs, losing their last six wickets for 82, to set Australia an unthreatening target to chase down in the remaining four sessions of play.

Australia stretched their unbeaten record at their Gabba fortress to 29 years since their last defeat to Viv Richards&#39; West Indies team in 1988.

England have not won in Brisbane in 31 years, a stretch of eight Ashes Tests.

The five-Test series heads to Adelaide Oval for the first-ever Ashes day-night Test, starting on Saturday.

'I'm pleased with the way we have played. Bowling first at The Gabba, it's hard,' Australian captain Steve Smith said

Australia cruised to a crushing 10-wicket win over England to go one-up in the Ashes series in the opening Test at the Gabba on Monday, with captain Steve Smith praising his team's character. Openers David Warner and Cameron Bancroft added to England's agony by peeling off the required runs without the loss of a wicket before lunch on the final day. Warner finished unbeaten on 87 off 119 balls with newcomer Bancroft hitting the winning runs to remain 82 not out off 182 balls in Australia's 173 without loss. In the process, they broke an 87-year-old Test record for the all-time highest unbeaten opening partnership in a successful Test chase. "We had to show some really good character throughout. Obviously losing the toss, and the wicket was a lot slower than we anticipated it would be. We had to work really hard," said Australian captain Steve Smith. "I'm pleased with the way we have played. Bowling first at The Gabba, it's hard. The bowlers had to be on. The way we pulled it back to win the position we were in it's extremely pleasing. I'm proud of the way the boys fought." The Australians only needed 56 runs on the final morning go one up after England imploded on Sunday's fourth day. Also read: Australia on brink of victory after England crumble England captain Joe Root said the result did not tell the full story. "For three days we were excellent. Bar Steve's knock we were right in it," he said, referring to Smith's battling first innings century. "It's frustrating. We have to move on quickly and make sure we don't make the same mistakes in Adelaide." It was Warner's 25th Test fifty and ninth in the Ashes, while debutant Bancroft posted his first half-century in only his second Test innings. "It was good fun, to share a good partnership was nice. To get the win, in the end, was good," said Bancroft, who was allegedly headbutted by England wicketkeeper Jonny Bairstow in a late-night altercation in Perth earlier in the tour. An England and Wales Cricket Board statement confirmed team management have asked Bairstow about the alleged incident. Warner said it was great to get the win without losing a wicket. "That's what we cherish, coming out being disciplined to try and get the job done as best as possible," he said. England's doleful defeat was played to the background sounds of the traveling Barmy Army supporters singing 'We'll Take the (Ashes) Urn Home' in the sparsely-populated Gabba ground. It was an attritional battle between the traditional rivals over the first three days of the Test, raising England's hopes of a first win at the ground in just over three decades. But skipper Smith's match-defining unbeaten 141 over eight-and-a-half hours to give Australia a 26-run innings lead and Josh Hazlewood's two late wickets on Saturday swung the momentum firmly Australia's way. England were knocked over for 195 off 71.4 overs, losing their last six wickets for 82, to set Australia an unthreatening target to chase down in the remaining four sessions of play. Australia stretched their unbeaten record at their Gabba fortress to 29 years since their last defeat to Viv Richards' West Indies team in 1988. England have not won in Brisbane in 31 years, a stretch of eight Ashes Tests. The five-Test series heads to Adelaide Oval for the first-ever Ashes day-night Test, starting on Saturday.

Ashes: Australia crush England by 10 wickets in 1st Test

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