November 27 will always be remembered as the black day in the history of international cricket. On this day, Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes lost his life in a freak accident while playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

On his fourth death anniversary, wishes poured in from cricketers and fans from all across. Former Australian captain Steve Smith and Michael Clarke shared emotional posts remembering Phil.

Phillip Joel Hughes was an Australian Test and One Day International (ODI) cricketer who played domestic for South Australia and Worcestershire.&nbsp;

On this day in 2014, he was struck by a bouncer bowled by Sean Abbott during a Sheffield Shield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

The bouncer struck on Hughes' neck caused a vertebral artery dissection that led to a subarachnoid haemorrhage.&nbsp;

Peter Brukner, the Australian team doctor said that only 100 such cases had ever been reported, with "only one case reported as a result of a cricket ball".

Immediately after the accident, Hughes was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, where he underwent surgery, was placed into an induced coma and was in intensive care in a critical condition.

Eventually, he died on November 27, having never regained consciousness, three days before his 26th birthday. Many tributes were paid to Hughes within and outside the world of cricket.

In his short career span, Hughes played 26 Tests and 25 one-day matches scoring 1535 and 826 runs respectively.

November 27 will always be remembered as the black day in the history of international cricket. On this day, Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes lost his life in a freak accident while playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

November 27 will always be remembered as the black day in the history of international cricket. On this day, Australian cricketer Phillip Hughes lost his life in a freak accident while playing at the Sydney Cricket Ground. On his fourth death anniversary, wishes poured in from cricketers and fans from all across. Former Australian captain Steve Smith and Michael Clarke shared emotional posts remembering Phil. Phillip Joel Hughes was an Australian Test and One Day International (ODI) cricketer who played domestic for South Australia and Worcestershire. On this day in 2014, he was struck by a bouncer bowled by Sean Abbott during a Sheffield Shield match at the Sydney Cricket Ground. The bouncer struck on Hughes' neck caused a vertebral artery dissection that led to a subarachnoid haemorrhage. Peter Brukner, the Australian team doctor said that only 100 such cases had ever been reported, with "only one case reported as a result of a cricket ball". Immediately after the accident, Hughes was taken to St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney, where he underwent surgery, was placed into an induced coma and was in intensive care in a critical condition. Eventually, he died on November 27, having never regained consciousness, three days before his 26th birthday. Many tributes were paid to Hughes within and outside the world of cricket. In his short career span, Hughes played 26 Tests and 25 one-day matches scoring 1535 and 826 runs respectively.

63 forever not out: Remembering Phillip Hughes on his 4th death anniversary

Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc may be called up for his first Twenty20 international in two years against India on Sunday after replacing the injured Billy Stanlake in Aaron Finch's squad.

Stanlake was ruled out of the series decider in Sydney after sustaining an ankle injury in the warm-up before the washed-out second T20I in Melbourne on Friday.

Left-arm&nbsp;pacer Starc played his last T20I against Sri Lanka away in September 2016.

Australia, who lead the three-match series 1-0 after winning the opener in Brisbane, already have Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jason Behrendorff and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis as pace options but captain Finch said Starc would be considered.

"(Starc has) got so much experience in the limited-overs games as well and we’ve seen how dominant he can be when he gets it right with the ball," Finch told reporters in Sydney on Saturday.

"We’ll have a look at the wicket this afternoon and discuss the side but coming straight off a Shield game with an eye on the first test, his preparations will be really good."

Australia face India in a four-match test series starting in Adelaide on December 6.

Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc may be called up for his first Twenty20 international in two years against India on Sunday after replacing the injured Billy Stanlake in Aaron Finch's squad.

Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc may be called up for his first Twenty20 international in two years against India on Sunday after replacing the injured Billy Stanlake in Aaron Finch's squad. Stanlake was ruled out of the series decider in Sydney after sustaining an ankle injury in the warm-up before the washed-out second T20I in Melbourne on Friday. Left-arm pacer Starc played his last T20I against Sri Lanka away in September 2016. Australia, who lead the three-match series 1-0 after winning the opener in Brisbane, already have Nathan Coulter-Nile, Jason Behrendorff and all-rounder Marcus Stoinis as pace options but captain Finch said Starc would be considered. "(Starc has) got so much experience in the limited-overs games as well and we’ve seen how dominant he can be when he gets it right with the ball," Finch told reporters in Sydney on Saturday. "We’ll have a look at the wicket this afternoon and discuss the side but coming straight off a Shield game with an eye on the first test, his preparations will be really good." Australia face India in a four-match test series starting in Adelaide on December 6.

Australia star pacer Mitchell Starc summoned for India T20

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

Steve Smith and David Warner could have their one-year bans from international and state cricket reduced or adjusted after a review by the board of Cricket Australia (CA) this week, local media reports said on Monday.

Former test captain Smith and vice-captain Warner were handed the bans by CA after the ball-tampering scandal earlier this year and are not scheduled to resume playing at the top level until the end of March 2019.

Batsman Cameron Bancroft was handed a nine-month ban for his part in the affair and is scheduled to return to action at the end of December.

The Australian Cricketers' Association have always contested the bans were overly-harsh and have continued to push for all three to be able to return to representative cricket immediately.

Those calls intensified after a cultural review into Cricket Australia last month that suggested that the culture fostered in the game by the governing body had contributed to the incident in a test against South Africa.

That review led to the resignation of chairman David Peever, who had forcefully maintained that the players should see out the full terms of their suspensions.

Sydney's Daily Telegraph on Monday reported that "serious discussions" had taken place among senior officials over allowing the players to return to state cricket, adding that the board would consider lifting the suspensions this week.

Smith and Warner are two of the best batsmen in world cricket and the debate over their bans is being played out against the backdrop of Australia's continued struggles in all formats of the men's game.

With Australia's defence of the 50-overs World Cup starting in England at the end of May and the defence of the Ashes following in August and September, there is clearly a desire among some Down Under to get the duo back as soon as possible.

Both have been keeping their hand in by playing Sydney club cricket and have received praise in local media for the way they have conducted themselves.

Smith and Warner have both been retained by their franchises in the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) for the next version of the competition, which starts on March 29.

Australia take on India in the first of three Twenty20 internationals in Brisbane on Wednesday looking to snap a run of four consecutive defeats in the format.

They then face the tourists, who are top of the world rankings, in four tests over December and January looking to avoid what would be a first ever home series loss to India.

Steve Smith and David Warner could have their one-year bans from international and state cricket reduced or adjusted after a review by the board of Cricket Australia (CA) this week, local media reports said on Monday.

Steve Smith and David Warner could have their one-year bans from international and state cricket reduced or adjusted after a review by the board of Cricket Australia (CA) this week, local media reports said on Monday. Former test captain Smith and vice-captain Warner were handed the bans by CA after the ball-tampering scandal earlier this year and are not scheduled to resume playing at the top level until the end of March 2019. Batsman Cameron Bancroft was handed a nine-month ban for his part in the affair and is scheduled to return to action at the end of December. The Australian Cricketers' Association have always contested the bans were overly-harsh and have continued to push for all three to be able to return to representative cricket immediately. Those calls intensified after a cultural review into Cricket Australia last month that suggested that the culture fostered in the game by the governing body had contributed to the incident in a test against South Africa. That review led to the resignation of chairman David Peever, who had forcefully maintained that the players should see out the full terms of their suspensions. Sydney's Daily Telegraph on Monday reported that "serious discussions" had taken place among senior officials over allowing the players to return to state cricket, adding that the board would consider lifting the suspensions this week. Smith and Warner are two of the best batsmen in world cricket and the debate over their bans is being played out against the backdrop of Australia's continued struggles in all formats of the men's game. With Australia's defence of the 50-overs World Cup starting in England at the end of May and the defence of the Ashes following in August and September, there is clearly a desire among some Down Under to get the duo back as soon as possible. Both have been keeping their hand in by playing Sydney club cricket and have received praise in local media for the way they have conducted themselves. Smith and Warner have both been retained by their franchises in the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL) for the next version of the competition, which starts on March 29. Australia take on India in the first of three Twenty20 internationals in Brisbane on Wednesday looking to snap a run of four consecutive defeats in the format. They then face the tourists, who are top of the world rankings, in four tests over December and January looking to avoid what would be a first ever home series loss to India.

Smith, Warner bans to be reviewed this week: Reports

Cricket Australia has informed players they will have to miss part of next year's Indian Premier League (IPL) if they are selected in the squad for the World Cup.

The 12th edition of the lucrative Twenty20 league will be played between March 29 and May 19, having been brought forward because of the 50-overs World Cup which begins in England on May 30.

Australian cricketers, who can earn more than $1 million for a stint in the league, must receive the permission of CA and the board on Thursday announced a series of conditions.

All players granted permission to play would have to be available to play at the World Cup and on the Ashes tour of England that follows in August and September, the governing body said in a statement.&nbsp;

Players involved in the Sheffield Shield final will only be released once that is concluded on April 1, while the 15 players selected to defend the World Cup will have to attend a mandatory training camp in early May and play warm-up matches.

"It is a difficult period with the IPL being brought forward to accommodate the Cricket World Cup, and overlapping our domestic season," CA's Belinda Clark said.

"We are committed to respecting the position of the Sheffield Shield, while ensuring Australia's World Cup squad is well prepared for this critical world event, while also ensuring those that are fit to play have opportunity to participate in the IPL.

"While this is no easy feat, I think we have managed a reasonable balance that will enable the players to consider their options and choose what is right for them and their respective teams."

Australia are also scheduled to play a one-day series against Pakistan that could overlap with the start of the IPL and CA said players would not be released until its conclusion.

"It is imperative that we ensure Australia is in the best possible position as we head into the Cricket World Cup and the 2019 Ashes series," Clark added.&nbsp;

"This means prioritising our focus on match readiness and the health of our players."

Steve Smith and David Warner both secured $1.7 million paydays in last year's IPL auction but were dropped after the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa that resulted in their one-year bans from international and state cricket.

Cricket Australia has informed players they will have to miss part of next year's Indian Premier League (IPL) if they are selected in the squad for the World Cup.

Cricket Australia has informed players they will have to miss part of next year's Indian Premier League (IPL) if they are selected in the squad for the World Cup. The 12th edition of the lucrative Twenty20 league will be played between March 29 and May 19, having been brought forward because of the 50-overs World Cup which begins in England on May 30. Australian cricketers, who can earn more than $1 million for a stint in the league, must receive the permission of CA and the board on Thursday announced a series of conditions. All players granted permission to play would have to be available to play at the World Cup and on the Ashes tour of England that follows in August and September, the governing body said in a statement. Players involved in the Sheffield Shield final will only be released once that is concluded on April 1, while the 15 players selected to defend the World Cup will have to attend a mandatory training camp in early May and play warm-up matches. "It is a difficult period with the IPL being brought forward to accommodate the Cricket World Cup, and overlapping our domestic season," CA's Belinda Clark said. "We are committed to respecting the position of the Sheffield Shield, while ensuring Australia's World Cup squad is well prepared for this critical world event, while also ensuring those that are fit to play have opportunity to participate in the IPL. "While this is no easy feat, I think we have managed a reasonable balance that will enable the players to consider their options and choose what is right for them and their respective teams." Australia are also scheduled to play a one-day series against Pakistan that could overlap with the start of the IPL and CA said players would not be released until its conclusion. "It is imperative that we ensure Australia is in the best possible position as we head into the Cricket World Cup and the 2019 Ashes series," Clark added. "This means prioritising our focus on match readiness and the health of our players." Steve Smith and David Warner both secured $1.7 million paydays in last year's IPL auction but were dropped after the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa that resulted in their one-year bans from international and state cricket.

Players picked for World Cup cannot play final weeks of IPL: Cricket Australia

"In the words of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=donald+trump">Donald Trump</a>, let's make cricket great again," former Australian cricketer Shane Warne said in a column for Melbourne's Herald Sun.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;

Warne penned down his thoughts to help current Australian cricket out of its current crisis.&nbsp;

He also urged the sport's beleaguered governing <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=cricket+australia">Cricket Australia</a> to make better use of other former top players.

Australian cricket team has been struggling since a ball-tampering scandal in March following which Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameroon Bancroft were banned.

Warne said he was "frustrated" at the state of Australian cricket.

"Cricket Australia is in disarray - fact. CA has lost control and sight of what it was trying to achieve, to make cricket Australia's favourite sport.

"That was its slogan and it was right but it has lost its way and thankfully heads are starting to roll."&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-scandal-independent-review-finds-cricket-australia-arrogant-174132">Ball-tampering scandal: Independent review finds 'arrogant' CA also responsible for </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ball-tampering-scandal-independent-review-finds-cricket-australia-arrogant-174132">incident</a>

The leg-spin icon said retired cricketers needed to play a bigger part in steering the sport, calling on a host of former teammates to rally behind the game.

"I put my hand up to (outgoing team performance boss) Pat Howard a few times, told him I was available if they needed me," he told the newspaper.

"I've always been happy to get involved in any role if Cricket Australia thought I could help the team. I'm sure all the ex-players would be the same."&nbsp;

He questioned why retired stars such as Michael Clarke had not been appointed as a batting consultant, or Glenn McGrath to help the fast bowlers.

"We've got a lot of spinners coming through who I've helped in an informal role. And I'm more than happy to help in a formal basis if required," he said.

"Why not ask Glenn McGrath, offer him a contract to help with the fast bowlers.

"We are not playing the Australian way at the moment, at any level."&nbsp;

Warne said "we just think we are going to produce cricketers" but argued that would not happen until the right people were involved and the right environment was put in place.

He advocated more game time for top players in the Sheffield Shield and said: "Stop the Twenty20 greed."&nbsp;

"The talent in Australia is good. It comes back to how they are being taught to play, more importantly the style they are being taught to play," he added.

"In the words of Donald Trump, let's make cricket great again," former Australian cricketer Shane Warne said in a column for Melbourne's Herald Sun. Warne penned down his thoughts to help current Australian cricket out of its current crisis.

"In the words of Donald Trump, let's make cricket great again," former Australian cricketer Shane Warne said in a column for Melbourne's Herald Sun. Warne penned down his thoughts to help current Australian cricket out of its current crisis. He also urged the sport's beleaguered governing Cricket Australia to make better use of other former top players. Australian cricket team has been struggling since a ball-tampering scandal in March following which Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameroon Bancroft were banned. Warne said he was "frustrated" at the state of Australian cricket. "Cricket Australia is in disarray - fact. CA has lost control and sight of what it was trying to achieve, to make cricket Australia's favourite sport. "That was its slogan and it was right but it has lost its way and thankfully heads are starting to roll." Ball-tampering scandal: Independent review finds 'arrogant' CA also responsible for incident The leg-spin icon said retired cricketers needed to play a bigger part in steering the sport, calling on a host of former teammates to rally behind the game. "I put my hand up to (outgoing team performance boss) Pat Howard a few times, told him I was available if they needed me," he told the newspaper. "I've always been happy to get involved in any role if Cricket Australia thought I could help the team. I'm sure all the ex-players would be the same." He questioned why retired stars such as Michael Clarke had not been appointed as a batting consultant, or Glenn McGrath to help the fast bowlers. "We've got a lot of spinners coming through who I've helped in an informal role. And I'm more than happy to help in a formal basis if required," he said. "Why not ask Glenn McGrath, offer him a contract to help with the fast bowlers. "We are not playing the Australian way at the moment, at any level." Warne said "we just think we are going to produce cricketers" but argued that would not happen until the right people were involved and the right environment was put in place. He advocated more game time for top players in the Sheffield Shield and said: "Stop the Twenty20 greed." "The talent in Australia is good. It comes back to how they are being taught to play, more importantly the style they are being taught to play," he added.

Shane Warne: In words of Donald Trump, let's make cricket great again

Former Australia captain Mark Taylor resigned from Cricket Australia's (CA) board of directors on Monday, as the fallout from a scathing review into the governing body's culture claimed another victim.

Taylor's resignation comes four days after board chairman David Peever stepped down, his position having become untenable in the wake of the Longstaff review, which was commissioned following the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

The 54-year-old Taylor, the board's longest-serving director, said he had been struggling to sleep soundly since the findings of the review were released a week ago.

He was also fatigued after a tumultuous 18 months in Australian cricket, featuring an acrimonious pay dispute with players last year and the ball-tampering crisis in South Africa in March.

"Over the last 13 years, but particularly the last 18 months, there's been a lot in this role as a director of Cricket Australia. And it's taken its toll on me," Taylor told a news conference.

"Over the last two weeks, even more so. And I've got to the stage where I don't think I can give any more. I've lost the energy and I think it's time for someone to fill my shoes."

Taylor had been touted as a possible successor for Peever by Australian cricket doyens but ruled himself out of the role last week, citing media commitments with local broadcaster Nine Network.

He said he had struggled to repair relations between the players union and CA, poisoned during negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement and further strained by the Cape Town scandal, which led to suspensions for former captain Steve Smith and two other players.

"I sit in sometimes an interesting position as a former player, board director and also a broadcaster," Taylor said.

"It can be a very tricky position and often very hard in trying to get the balance right in saying too much or saying not enough. Balancing those positions is tough and it takes it out of you."

LITANY OF CHANGES

Taylor is the third member of the CA board to quit in the last six months, following Peever and former director Bob Every, who resigned in May over disagreements with Peever's leadership.

The board is currently chaired on an interim basis by Earl Eddings until CA decides on a permanent replacement.

Taylor hoped he could be replaced by a former player and suggested there was a good opportunity for a woman to take his role on the male-dominated board.

The resignation continues the litany of changes at the top of Australian cricket, with Kevin Roberts having replaced long-serving CEO James Sutherland last month, new captains appointed to the nationals teams and a new head coach in Justin Langer.

The men's national teams have yet to recover from the ball-tampering scandal, with the test side losing two of their last three matches and the one-day side 17 of their last 19 following their defeat to South Africa in Perth on Sunday.

"I think it's a great opportunity for a reset in Australian cricket, to make that change that everybody talks about," Taylor added.

"It's a good opportunity, obviously with our men's team struggling, for all of us to change for the good and start working out how we can actually work together for the good of Australian cricket."

Former Australia captain Mark Taylor resigned from Cricket Australia's (CA) board of directors on Monday, as the fallout from a scathing review into the governing body's culture claimed another victim.

Former Australia captain Mark Taylor resigned from Cricket Australia's (CA) board of directors on Monday, as the fallout from a scathing review into the governing body's culture claimed another victim. Taylor's resignation comes four days after board chairman David Peever stepped down, his position having become untenable in the wake of the Longstaff review, which was commissioned following the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal. The 54-year-old Taylor, the board's longest-serving director, said he had been struggling to sleep soundly since the findings of the review were released a week ago. He was also fatigued after a tumultuous 18 months in Australian cricket, featuring an acrimonious pay dispute with players last year and the ball-tampering crisis in South Africa in March. "Over the last 13 years, but particularly the last 18 months, there's been a lot in this role as a director of Cricket Australia. And it's taken its toll on me," Taylor told a news conference. "Over the last two weeks, even more so. And I've got to the stage where I don't think I can give any more. I've lost the energy and I think it's time for someone to fill my shoes." Taylor had been touted as a possible successor for Peever by Australian cricket doyens but ruled himself out of the role last week, citing media commitments with local broadcaster Nine Network. He said he had struggled to repair relations between the players union and CA, poisoned during negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement and further strained by the Cape Town scandal, which led to suspensions for former captain Steve Smith and two other players. "I sit in sometimes an interesting position as a former player, board director and also a broadcaster," Taylor said. "It can be a very tricky position and often very hard in trying to get the balance right in saying too much or saying not enough. Balancing those positions is tough and it takes it out of you." LITANY OF CHANGES Taylor is the third member of the CA board to quit in the last six months, following Peever and former director Bob Every, who resigned in May over disagreements with Peever's leadership. The board is currently chaired on an interim basis by Earl Eddings until CA decides on a permanent replacement. Taylor hoped he could be replaced by a former player and suggested there was a good opportunity for a woman to take his role on the male-dominated board. The resignation continues the litany of changes at the top of Australian cricket, with Kevin Roberts having replaced long-serving CEO James Sutherland last month, new captains appointed to the nationals teams and a new head coach in Justin Langer. The men's national teams have yet to recover from the ball-tampering scandal, with the test side losing two of their last three matches and the one-day side 17 of their last 19 following their defeat to South Africa in Perth on Sunday. "I think it's a great opportunity for a reset in Australian cricket, to make that change that everybody talks about," Taylor added. "It's a good opportunity, obviously with our men's team struggling, for all of us to change for the good and start working out how we can actually work together for the good of Australian cricket."

Now, former captain Mark Taylor resigns from Cricket Australia board

Embattled Cricket Australia (CA) Chairman David Peever is set to step down in the wake of a review into the board`s governance and culture, local media reported on Thursday.

Peever, who was recently re-elected for another three-year term, would tender his resignation at a CA board meeting later on Thursday, the Sydney Morning Herald reported, citing unnamed sources.

CA could not immediately be reached for comment.

Peever has come under heavy pressure following CA`s delayed release of the independent Longstaff report on Monday.

The report blamed CA in part for the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town in March that led to long suspensions for the test side`s former captain Steve Smith, and batsmen David Warner and Cameron Bancroft.

It also described the board as "arrogant" and "controlling", and of nurturing a culture of "winning without counting the costs".

CA delayed releasing the report until after Peever was reelected at an annual general meeting last week, prompting heavy criticism from luminaries including former board boss Malcolm Speed and former Australia Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

At least three of Australia`s state cricket associations have declined to endorse Peever`s leadership since the review`s release on Monday, local media have reported.

Embattled Cricket Australia (CA) Chairman David Peever is set to step down in the wake of a review into the board`s governance and culture, local media reported on Thursday.

Embattled Cricket Australia (CA) Chairman David Peever is set to step down in the wake of a review into the board`s governance and culture, local media reported on Thursday. Peever, who was recently re-elected for another three-year term, would tender his resignation at a CA board meeting later on Thursday, the Sydney Morning Herald reported, citing unnamed sources. CA could not immediately be reached for comment. Peever has come under heavy pressure following CA`s delayed release of the independent Longstaff report on Monday. The report blamed CA in part for the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town in March that led to long suspensions for the test side`s former captain Steve Smith, and batsmen David Warner and Cameron Bancroft. It also described the board as "arrogant" and "controlling", and of nurturing a culture of "winning without counting the costs". CA delayed releasing the report until after Peever was reelected at an annual general meeting last week, prompting heavy criticism from luminaries including former board boss Malcolm Speed and former Australia Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. At least three of Australia`s state cricket associations have declined to endorse Peever`s leadership since the review`s release on Monday, local media have reported.

Cricket Australia Chairman Peever to step down: Reports

Cricket Australia (CA) Chairman David Peever on Thursday resigned in the wake of a review into the board's governance and culture, CA said on Thursday.

Peever, who was recently re-elected for another three-year term, will be replaced by deputy chair Earl Eddings for the interim period until a permanent appointment can be made, CA said in a statement.

Peever has come under heavy pressure following CA's delayed release of the independent Longstaff report on Monday.

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David Peever has announced his resignation as Chairman of the Board of Cricket Australia, effective immediately <a href="https://t.co/qRsf6oB4av">https://t.co/qRsf6oB4av</a> <a href="https://t.co/WD1mObhaZ5">pic.twitter.com/WD1mObhaZ5</a>
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The report blamed CA in part for the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town in March that led to long suspensions for the test side`s former captain Steve Smith, and batsmen David Warner and Cameron Bancroft.

It also described the board as "arrogant" and "controlling", and of nurturing a culture of "winning without counting the costs".

At least three of Australia's state cricket associations have declined to endorse Peever's leadership since the review's release.

Cricket Australia (CA) Chairman David Peever on Thursday resigned in the wake of a review into the board's governance and culture, CA said on Thursday. Peever, who was recently re-elected for another three-year term, will be replaced by deputy chair Earl Eddings for the interim period until a permanent appointment can be made, CA said in a statement.

Cricket Australia (CA) Chairman David Peever on Thursday resigned in the wake of a review into the board's governance and culture, CA said on Thursday. Peever, who was recently re-elected for another three-year term, will be replaced by deputy chair Earl Eddings for the interim period until a permanent appointment can be made, CA said in a statement. Peever has come under heavy pressure following CA's delayed release of the independent Longstaff report on Monday. David Peever has announced his resignation as Chairman of the Board of Cricket Australia, effective immediately https://t.co/qRsf6oB4av pic.twitter.com/WD1mObhaZ5 — Cricket Australia (@CAComms) November 1, 2018 × The report blamed CA in part for the ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town in March that led to long suspensions for the test side`s former captain Steve Smith, and batsmen David Warner and Cameron Bancroft. It also described the board as "arrogant" and "controlling", and of nurturing a culture of "winning without counting the costs". At least three of Australia's state cricket associations have declined to endorse Peever's leadership since the review's release.

Cricket Australia chairman David Peever steps down

Pressure was building on Cricket Australia chairman David Peever to resign on Tuesday in the wake of the release of a scathing independent review into the culture of the game.

Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and former ICC Chief Executive Malcolm Speed were among those calling for him to be replaced after Monday`s release of the review commissioned in the wake of March`s ball-tampering scandal.

The report said the governing body was perceived as "arrogant" and "controlling" and treated its elite players like commodities, allowing "alpha-male" egos to develop a win-at-all-costs approach.&nbsp;

Peever, who was awarded a second five-year term last week, embarked on a series of media interviews defending the leadership of Cricket Australia on Monday, including one in which he described the ball-tampering incident as a "hiccup".

Speed said that interview had convinced him that the former mining executive was not the right man to take Cricket Australia forward and that somebody with a background in the game needed to take over.&nbsp;

"It's not a hiccup, it`s much more than that," Speed, who was chief executive of the Australian cricket board from 1997 until 2001 before serving a similar role at the global governing body, told ABC radio.

"My response when I saw that interview and I saw that comment, I thought Australian cricket can do better in choosing its chairman and the game deserves better governance."

Former Prime Minister Rudd joined a growing chorus of discontent at Peever's reaction to the review on social media, posting his comments on Twitter.

"So let's get this straight," he wrote. "Cricket Australia, under David Peever, has overseen the destruction of the (international) image of our national game.&nbsp;

"But Peever gets re-appointed as chair last wk, 3 days before release of damning report? #PeeverShouldResign."

With the review also suggesting that the culture CA fostered had contributed to the ball-tampering scandal, there were calls for the suspensions imposed on Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft to be lifted.

Speed suggested that former Australia test captain and Cricket Australia board member Mark Taylor would fit the bill as chairman in place of Peever.&nbsp;

"I'd like to see Mark Taylor stand up as chairman of Cricket Australia," he said.&nbsp;

"David is the first to have come out of the corporate world rather than out of the cricket world and I think in this crisis that's what's shown here," Speed added.

"It's good to see some diversity on the board - some women, some people who aren't from the cricket family so to speak - but I think that's missing at the moment, that the dyed-in-the-wool cricket people need to stand up and take back their sport."

Peever was also faced with blanket condemnation in the pages of Australia's newspapers on Tuesday, the main charge being that he had extended his reign as chairman after the ball-tampering scandal while heads around him rolled.

Former captain and vice-captain Smith and Warner are serving one-year bans, former coach Darren Lehmann and chief executive James Sutherland have since stood down, while high performance chief Pat Howard has announced his departure.

In The Australian newspaper, cricket writer Gideon Haigh pinpointed a line in the review that spoke of people in leadership roles having to take responsibility for matters "over which they do not exercise direct control".

"David Peever is lost," he wrote. "Cricket needs to find another guide."

Pressure was building on Cricket Australia chairman David Peever to resign on Tuesday in the wake of the release of a scathing independent review into the culture of the game.

Pressure was building on Cricket Australia chairman David Peever to resign on Tuesday in the wake of the release of a scathing independent review into the culture of the game. Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and former ICC Chief Executive Malcolm Speed were among those calling for him to be replaced after Monday`s release of the review commissioned in the wake of March`s ball-tampering scandal. The report said the governing body was perceived as "arrogant" and "controlling" and treated its elite players like commodities, allowing "alpha-male" egos to develop a win-at-all-costs approach. Peever, who was awarded a second five-year term last week, embarked on a series of media interviews defending the leadership of Cricket Australia on Monday, including one in which he described the ball-tampering incident as a "hiccup". Speed said that interview had convinced him that the former mining executive was not the right man to take Cricket Australia forward and that somebody with a background in the game needed to take over. "It's not a hiccup, it`s much more than that," Speed, who was chief executive of the Australian cricket board from 1997 until 2001 before serving a similar role at the global governing body, told ABC radio. "My response when I saw that interview and I saw that comment, I thought Australian cricket can do better in choosing its chairman and the game deserves better governance." Former Prime Minister Rudd joined a growing chorus of discontent at Peever's reaction to the review on social media, posting his comments on Twitter. "So let's get this straight," he wrote. "Cricket Australia, under David Peever, has overseen the destruction of the (international) image of our national game. "But Peever gets re-appointed as chair last wk, 3 days before release of damning report? #PeeverShouldResign." With the review also suggesting that the culture CA fostered had contributed to the ball-tampering scandal, there were calls for the suspensions imposed on Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft to be lifted. Speed suggested that former Australia test captain and Cricket Australia board member Mark Taylor would fit the bill as chairman in place of Peever. "I'd like to see Mark Taylor stand up as chairman of Cricket Australia," he said. "David is the first to have come out of the corporate world rather than out of the cricket world and I think in this crisis that's what's shown here," Speed added. "It's good to see some diversity on the board - some women, some people who aren't from the cricket family so to speak - but I think that's missing at the moment, that the dyed-in-the-wool cricket people need to stand up and take back their sport." Peever was also faced with blanket condemnation in the pages of Australia's newspapers on Tuesday, the main charge being that he had extended his reign as chairman after the ball-tampering scandal while heads around him rolled. Former captain and vice-captain Smith and Warner are serving one-year bans, former coach Darren Lehmann and chief executive James Sutherland have since stood down, while high performance chief Pat Howard has announced his departure. In The Australian newspaper, cricket writer Gideon Haigh pinpointed a line in the review that spoke of people in leadership roles having to take responsibility for matters "over which they do not exercise direct control". "David Peever is lost," he wrote. "Cricket needs to find another guide."

Ball-tampering scandal: Luminaries call for Cricket Australia chairman David Peever to resign

The independent review, appointed by Cricket Australia (CA), condemned board's faulty culture that led players to cheat in "pursuit of victory".

The review released on Monday by the Sydney-based Ethics Centre, appointed by CA, said that "Australian cricket has lost its balance … and has stumbled badly".

The review concluded, "The detailed report that follows provides evidence of the gaps between what Australian cricket aspires to be and where it stands today."

"Our recommendations are designed to close those gaps – and in doing so, to help Australian cricket (and its cricketers) remain competitive while being grounded within an Australian community that is proud of its success and the manner by which it has been achieved," recommended the panel.

The panel was ordered to file an independent report after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/1-year-ban-for-australias-smith-warner-9-months-for-bancroft-cricket-australia-126774">ball-tampering scandal in which three Australian players</a> -&nbsp;Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft - were involved.

Following that shocking incident then-coach, Darren Lehmann quit and Smith, Warner and Bancroft were banned from the game.&nbsp;

The statement said, "Responsibility for that larger picture lies with CA and not just the players held directly responsible for the appalling incident at Newlands."

The independent review by the Sydney-based Ethics Centre accused CA of leaving players without any moral guidance.

"Of all the physical attributes possessed by an elite cricketer, one of the most important is a refined sense of balance. It is balance that allows a bowler to maintain a consistent line and length despite their extraordinary physical exertions."

"It is balance that allows a batsman to dispatch a ball travelling at close to 150kmh with an elegant cover drive."

"And it is balance that allows a fielder to take a catch one handed while their body pitches in another direction."

"Australian cricket has lost its balance … and has stumbled badly."

"The reputation of the game of cricket, as played by men, has been tainted. Women’s cricket remains unaffected."

"Opinion is most divided"

The statement mentioned that there is no consensus amongst stakeholders and the opinions are mostly divided.&nbsp;

"With the exception of CA's own Board and senior executives, the broad consensus amongst stakeholders is that CA does not consistently 'live' its values and principles."

"CA is perceived to say one thing and do another. The most common description of CA is as 'arrogant' and 'controlling'."

"The core complaint is that the organisation does not respect anyone other than its own. Players feel that they are treated as commodities."

"There is a feeling amongst some State and Territory Associations that they are patronised while sponsors believe their value is defined solely in transactional terms."

"The group most critical of CA is the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA). The ACA's negative assessment of CA is extreme, matched only by the positive assessment offered by the CA Board."

The independent review, appointed by Cricket Australia (CA), condemned board's faulty culture that led players to cheat in "pursuit of victory". The review released on Monday by the Sydney-based Ethics Centre, appointed by CA, said that "Australian cricket has lost its balance … and has stumbled badly".

The independent review, appointed by Cricket Australia (CA), condemned board's faulty culture that led players to cheat in "pursuit of victory". The review released on Monday by the Sydney-based Ethics Centre, appointed by CA, said that "Australian cricket has lost its balance … and has stumbled badly". The review concluded, "The detailed report that follows provides evidence of the gaps between what Australian cricket aspires to be and where it stands today." "Our recommendations are designed to close those gaps – and in doing so, to help Australian cricket (and its cricketers) remain competitive while being grounded within an Australian community that is proud of its success and the manner by which it has been achieved," recommended the panel. The panel was ordered to file an independent report after the ball-tampering scandal in which three Australian players - Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft - were involved. Following that shocking incident then-coach, Darren Lehmann quit and Smith, Warner and Bancroft were banned from the game. The statement said, "Responsibility for that larger picture lies with CA and not just the players held directly responsible for the appalling incident at Newlands." The independent review by the Sydney-based Ethics Centre accused CA of leaving players without any moral guidance. "Of all the physical attributes possessed by an elite cricketer, one of the most important is a refined sense of balance. It is balance that allows a bowler to maintain a consistent line and length despite their extraordinary physical exertions." "It is balance that allows a batsman to dispatch a ball travelling at close to 150kmh with an elegant cover drive." "And it is balance that allows a fielder to take a catch one handed while their body pitches in another direction." "Australian cricket has lost its balance … and has stumbled badly." "The reputation of the game of cricket, as played by men, has been tainted. Women’s cricket remains unaffected." "Opinion is most divided" The statement mentioned that there is no consensus amongst stakeholders and the opinions are mostly divided. "With the exception of CA's own Board and senior executives, the broad consensus amongst stakeholders is that CA does not consistently 'live' its values and principles." "CA is perceived to say one thing and do another. The most common description of CA is as 'arrogant' and 'controlling'." "The core complaint is that the organisation does not respect anyone other than its own. Players feel that they are treated as commodities." "There is a feeling amongst some State and Territory Associations that they are patronised while sponsors believe their value is defined solely in transactional terms." "The group most critical of CA is the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA). The ACA's negative assessment of CA is extreme, matched only by the positive assessment offered by the CA Board."

Ball-tampering scandal: Independent review finds 'arrogant' CA also responsible for incident

Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft should have their cheating bans slashed because they were put under too much pressure by administrators, the Australian Cricketers' Association said Monday.

In the wake of a scathing report about the actions of Cricket Australia in the run-up to the March "sandpaper" incident that rocked the sport, the players' union painted the three-Test stars as victims of circumstance and said they should be free to take the field again at the top level.

An independent review by a leading ethicist said the governing body put too much pressure on the players to win at all costs.

"The events in South Africa were in part a by-product of a culture and system which, amongst other things, placed too much pressure on players to win," said ACA President Greg Dyer, a former Test wicketkeeper.

"Basic fairness demands these independently verified contributing factors must now be taken into consideration and the penalties reduced.

"There must be a reconsideration of the harshness of the penalties handed down to Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft."&nbsp;

The scandal involved the three players conspiring to use sandpaper to illegally alter the flight of the ball in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town.

Then-captain Smith and his deputy Warner received a one-year ban from international and state cricket while opening batsman Bancroft was suspended for nine months.

Calls have been growing for Smith and Warner -- who recently padded up in club cricket in Australia -- to return to the international fold after a string of poor performances by the national team.

Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft should have their cheating bans slashed because they were put under too much pressure by administrators, the Australian Cricketers' Association said Monday.

Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft should have their cheating bans slashed because they were put under too much pressure by administrators, the Australian Cricketers' Association said Monday. In the wake of a scathing report about the actions of Cricket Australia in the run-up to the March "sandpaper" incident that rocked the sport, the players' union painted the three-Test stars as victims of circumstance and said they should be free to take the field again at the top level. An independent review by a leading ethicist said the governing body put too much pressure on the players to win at all costs. "The events in South Africa were in part a by-product of a culture and system which, amongst other things, placed too much pressure on players to win," said ACA President Greg Dyer, a former Test wicketkeeper. "Basic fairness demands these independently verified contributing factors must now be taken into consideration and the penalties reduced. "There must be a reconsideration of the harshness of the penalties handed down to Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft." The scandal involved the three players conspiring to use sandpaper to illegally alter the flight of the ball in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. Then-captain Smith and his deputy Warner received a one-year ban from international and state cricket while opening batsman Bancroft was suspended for nine months. Calls have been growing for Smith and Warner -- who recently padded up in club cricket in Australia -- to return to the international fold after a string of poor performances by the national team.

Ball-tampering row: Australia cricket union urges ban on Smith, Warner to be cut

Australia's cricketer David Warner, who is serving a 12-month ban after the ball-tampering scandal, was subjected to "hurtful" sledging while playing in a Sydney grade game for his club Randwick-Petersham on Saturday.

Apparently unhappy Warner walked off mid-innings but later decided to come back and continue the game.

He went on to score 157.

The incident happened when Jason Hughes, brother of ex-Test teammate Phillip Hughes who died in 2014 after being hit by a ball, reportedly called him "a disgrace".

After the incident, Warner told an umpire he was removing himself from the game. The nature of the sledge was not known.

Cricket Australia's website claimed that what started as goading from Hughes soon turned personal and Warner - who has a fierce on-field reputation - decided to leave before it escalated.

Phillip Hughes died on November 25, 2014, when a bouncer bowled by Sean Abbott struck his head. He died from bleeding on the brain.

Warner was fielding in the match when that incident had happened at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

At the inquest, Warner said Hughes had been one of his "closest mates" and he missed him every day.

Australia's cricketer David Warner, who is serving a 12-month ban after the ball-tampering scandal, was subjected to "hurtful" sledging while playing in a Sydney grade game for his club Randwick-Petersham on Saturday.

Australia's cricketer David Warner, who is serving a 12-month ban after the ball-tampering scandal, was subjected to "hurtful" sledging while playing in a Sydney grade game for his club Randwick-Petersham on Saturday. Apparently unhappy Warner walked off mid-innings but later decided to come back and continue the game. He went on to score 157. The incident happened when Jason Hughes, brother of ex-Test teammate Phillip Hughes who died in 2014 after being hit by a ball, reportedly called him "a disgrace". After the incident, Warner told an umpire he was removing himself from the game. The nature of the sledge was not known. Cricket Australia's website claimed that what started as goading from Hughes soon turned personal and Warner - who has a fierce on-field reputation - decided to leave before it escalated. Phillip Hughes died on November 25, 2014, when a bouncer bowled by Sean Abbott struck his head. He died from bleeding on the brain. Warner was fielding in the match when that incident had happened at the Sydney Cricket Ground. At the inquest, Warner said Hughes had been one of his "closest mates" and he missed him every day.

David Warner walks-off after 'hurtful' sledge by Phil Hughes' brother

Cricket Australia announced Monday it has closed its investigation into Moeen Ali's claim he was called "Osama" during the 2015 Ashes series, after failing to unearth new details on the allegation.

The England all-rounder and practising Muslim made the claim in his autobiography, an extract of which was published in Britain's Times newspaper earlier this month.

Moeen said he was on the receiving end of the slur, a reference to late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, from an unnamed opponent during his Ashes debut in Cardiff.

"An Australian player turned to me on the field and said, 'Take that, Osama'. I could not believe what I had heard. I remember going really red. I have never been so angry on a cricket field," said the 31-year-old.

Cricket Australia announced it was launching an investigation, saying the comment was "unacceptable".

But a CA spokesman said: "We have followed up with the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and our team management and confirmed that the incident was investigated at the time, with a response provided to Moeen.&nbsp;

"Moeen elected not to progress the matter any further and we have not been able to ascertain any new additional evidence through our enquiries. As such, the matter is considered closed."

Moeen said the Australian player in question had denied making the comment to him at the time.

"I told a couple of the guys what the player had said to me and I think (England coach) Trevor Bayliss (who is himself Australian) must have raised it with Darren Lehmann, the (then) Australians' coach," he said.

"Lehmann asked the player, 'Did you call Moeen Osama?' He denied it, saying, 'No, I said, "Take that, you part-timer"'."

Cricket Australia announced Monday it has closed its investigation into Moeen Ali's claim he was called "Osama" during the 2015 Ashes series, after failing to unearth new details on the allegation.

Cricket Australia announced Monday it has closed its investigation into Moeen Ali's claim he was called "Osama" during the 2015 Ashes series, after failing to unearth new details on the allegation. The England all-rounder and practising Muslim made the claim in his autobiography, an extract of which was published in Britain's Times newspaper earlier this month. Moeen said he was on the receiving end of the slur, a reference to late Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden, from an unnamed opponent during his Ashes debut in Cardiff. "An Australian player turned to me on the field and said, 'Take that, Osama'. I could not believe what I had heard. I remember going really red. I have never been so angry on a cricket field," said the 31-year-old. Cricket Australia announced it was launching an investigation, saying the comment was "unacceptable". But a CA spokesman said: "We have followed up with the ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board) and our team management and confirmed that the incident was investigated at the time, with a response provided to Moeen. "Moeen elected not to progress the matter any further and we have not been able to ascertain any new additional evidence through our enquiries. As such, the matter is considered closed." Moeen said the Australian player in question had denied making the comment to him at the time. "I told a couple of the guys what the player had said to me and I think (England coach) Trevor Bayliss (who is himself Australian) must have raised it with Darren Lehmann, the (then) Australians' coach," he said. "Lehmann asked the player, 'Did you call Moeen Osama?' He denied it, saying, 'No, I said, "Take that, you part-timer"'."

Cricket Australia closes probe into Moeen Ali 'Osama' claim

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/russia-has-proposed-a-roadmap-for-resolving-korean-peninsula-issue-says-putin-142499">'Russia has proposed a 'roadmap' for resolving Korean Peninsula issue,' says Putin</a>

Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov had med Kim in Pyongyang last week and extended an invite to the North Korean leader to meet Putin.

&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/kim-trump-summit-to-take-place-in-singapores-capella-hotel-on-sentosa-island-142478">Kim-Trump summit to take place in Singapore's Capella hotel on Sentosa Island</a>

The White House had said on Tuesday the meeting would take place at 9:00 am (0100 GMT).

&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/sports/jerusalem-row-israel-calls-off-argentina-world-cup-friendly-142483">Jerusalem row: Israel calls off Argentina World Cup friendly</a>

The match had created great hype with Argentina star Lionel Messi likely to play, however, it took a political turn.

&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/world/miss-america-to-scrape-the-swimsuit-round-from-its-pageant-142480">'Miss America' to scrap swimsuit round from its pageant</a>

The Miss America Organization had long defended the segment where women posed in skimpy swimsuits as a measure of the women`s physical fitness.

&nbsp;

<a href="http://wionews.com/sports/cricket-australia-ceo-james-sutherland-resigns-142487">Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland resigns</a>

Sutherland will continue in his position till a replacement is found, his notice period will extend to 12 months, reports said.

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Sutherland will continue in his position till a replacement is found

'Russia has proposed a 'roadmap' for resolving Korean Peninsula issue,' says Putin Russia's foreign minister Sergei Lavrov had med Kim in Pyongyang last week and extended an invite to the North Korean leader to meet Putin. Kim-Trump summit to take place in Singapore's Capella hotel on Sentosa Island The White House had said on Tuesday the meeting would take place at 9:00 am (0100 GMT). Jerusalem row: Israel calls off Argentina World Cup friendly The match had created great hype with Argentina star Lionel Messi likely to play, however, it took a political turn. 'Miss America' to scrap swimsuit round from its pageant The Miss America Organization had long defended the segment where women posed in skimpy swimsuits as a measure of the women`s physical fitness. Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland resigns Sutherland will continue in his position till a replacement is found, his notice period will extend to 12 months, reports said.

Top-5 stories of the day

Former Australia captain Ricky&nbspPonting&nbsphas joined the Australian coaching staff for the side's five one-day internationals and one Twenty20 international game against England in June.

Ponting&nbspjoins former teammate Justin Langer, who was appointed coach of the team on a four-year term after Darren Lehmann resigned in the wake of a ball-tampering scandal in March.

"Ricky is one of the greats of the game, and since he was already in England doing some commentary we saw it as a great opportunity to have him join our team for this important series," Langer said in a statement.

Ponting&nbsphas served as assistant coach for the T20 side twice before, against Sri Lanka in 2017 and for the tri-series against New Zealand and England earlier this year.

He was also the head coach of the Delhi Daredevils side in the Indian Premier League this year.

"Ricky's knowledge of the game is second-to-none, and we know that his experiences, tactical expertise and leadership will be invaluable for this group," Langer added.

The three-time World Cup winner will begin his assignment on June 10, working around his commentary commitments.

Ponting has served as assistant coach for the T20 side twice before, against Sri Lanka in 2017 and for the tri-series against New Zealand and England earlier this year.

Former Australia captain Ricky&nbspPonting&nbsphas joined the Australian coaching staff for the side's five one-day internationals and one Twenty20 international game against England in June. Ponting&nbspjoins former teammate Justin Langer, who was appointed coach of the team on a four-year term after Darren Lehmann resigned in the wake of a ball-tampering scandal in March. "Ricky is one of the greats of the game, and since he was already in England doing some commentary we saw it as a great opportunity to have him join our team for this important series," Langer said in a statement. Ponting&nbsphas served as assistant coach for the T20 side twice before, against Sri Lanka in 2017 and for the tri-series against New Zealand and England earlier this year. He was also the head coach of the Delhi Daredevils side in the Indian Premier League this year. "Ricky's knowledge of the game is second-to-none, and we know that his experiences, tactical expertise and leadership will be invaluable for this group," Langer added. The three-time World Cup winner will begin his assignment on June 10, working around his commentary commitments.

Ricky Ponting joins Australian coaching staff for England tour

Cricket Australia's (CA) CEO James Sutherland announced in Melbourne today that he had resigned from his post after&nbspserving for seventeen years.

Sutherland will continue in his position till a replacement is found, his notice period will extend to 12 months, reports said.

"After nearly 20 years at Cricket Australia, the time is right. I feel very comfortable that this is the right time for me and a good time for the game," Sutherland said&nbsp

Sutherland's resignation comes nearly two months after the ball-tampering row which shook the foundations of Australian cricket leading to the suspension of ex-captain Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft. Australian coach Darren Lehmann resigned during the disastrous South Africa tour with Sutherland playing the role of a firefighter.&nbsp 
&nbsp &nbsp&nbsp 
"In the last 12 months we have laid key foundation stones which have included a new strategy for Australian cricket, a new Memorandum of Understanding with the Australian Cricketers' Association that provides certainty for our male and female cricketers, and just recently, a new domestic broadcast rights deals that will see broader TV coverage and significant increases in revenue flowing into the game," &nbspSutherland while announcing his resignation.

"With these foundations in place, I feel that it is a good time to hand over the reins to a new CEO. My successor will have a strong and stable platform from which to lead our national strategy and to deliver on our bold aspirations to grow cricket as Australia’s favourite sport and a sport for all Australians," he said. &nbsp

"As it has been over the last 20 years, it will be a privilege and honour to continue to serve the game over the remaining months that I am in office," Sutherland added.

Sutherland will continue in his position till a replacement is found, his notice period will extend to 12 months, reports said.

Cricket Australia's (CA) CEO James Sutherland announced in Melbourne today that he had resigned from his post after&nbspserving for seventeen years. Sutherland will continue in his position till a replacement is found, his notice period will extend to 12 months, reports said. "After nearly 20 years at Cricket Australia, the time is right. I feel very comfortable that this is the right time for me and a good time for the game," Sutherland said Sutherland's resignation comes nearly two months after the ball-tampering row which shook the foundations of Australian cricket leading to the suspension of ex-captain Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft. Australian coach Darren Lehmann resigned during the disastrous South Africa tour with Sutherland playing the role of a firefighter. "In the last 12 months we have laid key foundation stones which have included a new strategy for Australian cricket, a new Memorandum of Understanding with the Australian Cricketers' Association that provides certainty for our male and female cricketers, and just recently, a new domestic broadcast rights deals that will see broader TV coverage and significant increases in revenue flowing into the game," &nbspSutherland while announcing his resignation. "With these foundations in place, I feel that it is a good time to hand over the reins to a new CEO. My successor will have a strong and stable platform from which to lead our national strategy and to deliver on our bold aspirations to grow cricket as Australia’s favourite sport and a sport for all Australians," he said. "As it has been over the last 20 years, it will be a privilege and honour to continue to serve the game over the remaining months that I am in office," Sutherland added.

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland resigns

Cricket Australia has released a statement in the wake of match-fixing allegations in several matches involving India, Sri Lanka, Australia and England last year.

According to the sting operation done by Al Jazeera television network, the match might have been played on a pitch doctored at the behest of match-fixers. The incident prompted the ICC to launch an investigation into the matter and said they were aware of the allegations.

Now, Cricket Australia has said it wasn't aware of any "credible evidence" linking two of its players to match-fixing.

CA chief James Sutherland urged the Qatari broadcaster to hand over its footage to the International Cricket Council following Sunday's documentary and pledged a full investigation if necessary.

"Although not having been provided an opportunity to view the documentary or any raw footage, our long-standing position on these matters is that credible claims will be treated very seriously and fully investigated," Sutherland said in a statement.

"Cricket Australia will continue to fully cooperate with the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit in its review of the matter. Neither the ICC or Cricket Australia is aware of any credible evidence linking Australian players to corruption in the game."

Sutherland also said, "Cricket Australia will continue to fully co-operate with the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit in its review of the matter."

He also urged Al Jazeera to provide all un-edited materials and any other evidence to the ICC investigation team so that a full and thorough investigation can be conducted.

The Al Jazeera programme claimed pitches were doctored to achieve desired results at Galle International Stadium, where Australia lost all their 20 wickets and were beaten by Sri Lanka inside three days in 2016.

They also made match-fixing allegations against England in their innings defeat to India in Chennai, which England captain Joe Root described as "outrageous".

The documentary made reference to the 2016 Test between Australia and Sri Lanka, where it claimed criminals had placed money on the game not ending in a draw, before it was wrapped up on the third day.

The names of the Australian players were bleeped out by Al Jazeera and the period of play under suspicion was also not revealed. 
&nbsp;

CA chief James Sutherland urged the Qatari broadcaster to hand over its footage to the International Cricket Council (ICC)

Cricket Australia has released a statement in the wake of match-fixing allegations in several matches involving India, Sri Lanka, Australia and England last year. According to the sting operation done by Al Jazeera television network, the match might have been played on a pitch doctored at the behest of match-fixers. The incident prompted the ICC to launch an investigation into the matter and said they were aware of the allegations. Now, Cricket Australia has said it wasn't aware of any "credible evidence" linking two of its players to match-fixing. CA chief James Sutherland urged the Qatari broadcaster to hand over its footage to the International Cricket Council following Sunday's documentary and pledged a full investigation if necessary. "Although not having been provided an opportunity to view the documentary or any raw footage, our long-standing position on these matters is that credible claims will be treated very seriously and fully investigated," Sutherland said in a statement. "Cricket Australia will continue to fully cooperate with the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit in its review of the matter. Neither the ICC or Cricket Australia is aware of any credible evidence linking Australian players to corruption in the game." Sutherland also said, "Cricket Australia will continue to fully co-operate with the ICC Anti-Corruption Unit in its review of the matter." He also urged Al Jazeera to provide all un-edited materials and any other evidence to the ICC investigation team so that a full and thorough investigation can be conducted. The Al Jazeera programme claimed pitches were doctored to achieve desired results at Galle International Stadium, where Australia lost all their 20 wickets and were beaten by Sri Lanka inside three days in 2016. They also made match-fixing allegations against England in their innings defeat to India in Chennai, which England captain Joe Root described as "outrageous". The documentary made reference to the 2016 Test between Australia and Sri Lanka, where it claimed criminals had placed money on the game not ending in a draw, before it was wrapped up on the third day. The names of the Australian players were bleeped out by Al Jazeera and the period of play under suspicion was also not revealed.

No 'credible evidence' to link Australian players to corruption: Cricket Australia

Forced to step down as Australia's coach owing to the ball-tampering scandal, Darren Lehmann will now groom young talent as part of a National Performance Programme here, Cricket Australia announced today.&nbsp 
In his new role, Lehmann will work under Cricket Australia's National Performance Programme head coach Troy Cooley.

Lehmann, who worked with National Cricket Centre in Brisbane before taking charge of the national team, will oversee the development of the National Performance Squad (NPS) over the winter months alongside Cooley, Ryan Harris and Chris Rogers.&nbsp

The 48-year-old Lehmann was appointed as head coach of Australia till 2019, but was forced to resign midway through his tenure following the Cape Town ball-tampering fiasco in March, despite being cleared of any wrongdoing. The former batsman had announced his resignation in an emotional press conference during which he broke down repeatedly.

According to CA, Lehmann will now work in his new position until October.&nbsp

"I had a good chat with 'Boof' (Lehmann) and he was really keen to continue his coaching," Cooley was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au.

"And what a great opportunity? having his expert skills in the areas that we need. He'll work with our targeted group of NPS players, but we'll also have our specialist blocks come in so his first four weeks will coincide with our spin program, which involves eight spinners from around the country plus the 10 NPS players.

"They'll all be able to talk to Darren about playing on subcontinental wickets, get his T20 thoughts, one-day and long-format thoughts about how to play and how to adjust your training," Cooley added.

Cooley also said that Lehmann's experience will be an asset in developing young Australian cricketers.&nbsp

"To have someone who's got that experience matching up with our coaching staff, it's invaluable," he said.

"It's also great experience for our coaches in 'Ryno' (Harris) and 'Buck' (Rogers), who are still learning their craft. And Darren has already told me he is relishing the opportunity, so it's win-win all round."

Lehmann is scheduled to begin in his new role from May 28.

&nbsp

Lehmann is scheduled to begin in his new role from May 28.

Forced to step down as Australia's coach owing to the ball-tampering scandal, Darren Lehmann will now groom young talent as part of a National Performance Programme here, Cricket Australia announced today. In his new role, Lehmann will work under Cricket Australia's National Performance Programme head coach Troy Cooley. Lehmann, who worked with National Cricket Centre in Brisbane before taking charge of the national team, will oversee the development of the National Performance Squad (NPS) over the winter months alongside Cooley, Ryan Harris and Chris Rogers. The 48-year-old Lehmann was appointed as head coach of Australia till 2019, but was forced to resign midway through his tenure following the Cape Town ball-tampering fiasco in March, despite being cleared of any wrongdoing. The former batsman had announced his resignation in an emotional press conference during which he broke down repeatedly. According to CA, Lehmann will now work in his new position until October. "I had a good chat with 'Boof' (Lehmann) and he was really keen to continue his coaching," Cooley was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au. "And what a great opportunity? having his expert skills in the areas that we need. He'll work with our targeted group of NPS players, but we'll also have our specialist blocks come in so his first four weeks will coincide with our spin program, which involves eight spinners from around the country plus the 10 NPS players. "They'll all be able to talk to Darren about playing on subcontinental wickets, get his T20 thoughts, one-day and long-format thoughts about how to play and how to adjust your training," Cooley added. Cooley also said that Lehmann's experience will be an asset in developing young Australian cricketers. "To have someone who's got that experience matching up with our coaching staff, it's invaluable," he said. "It's also great experience for our coaches in 'Ryno' (Harris) and 'Buck' (Rogers), who are still learning their craft. And Darren has already told me he is relishing the opportunity, so it's win-win all round." Lehmann is scheduled to begin in his new role from May 28.

Darren Lehmann earns new coaching role with CA, to mentor NPS

Cricket Australia(CA) today announced a 15-man team to be captained by Tim Paine for ODI series against England starting next month.

D’Arcy Short has made it to the ODI squad for the first time with Lathan Lyon making a comeback after two years.

"England potentially have a number of left-handers in their side and we look forward to seeing what (Lyon) can produce with the white-ball in English conditions," said CA selector&nbsp;Trevor&nbsp;Hohns.

"A decision on a permanent one-day captain will be made in due course,"&nbsp;Hohns added.

Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins were not included due to injury, the selectors said.

"Tim is a strong leader and will captain the side for this series, supported by Aaron," selector Trevor Hohns said.

"We have selected a 15-player squad as we push forward in our preparations for the World Cup in England in 2019," he added.

Aaron Finch was named the T-20 captain with Alex Carey as vice-captain. &nbsp;Jack Wildermuth and Mitchell Swepson have made it into the squad for the first time.

Nic Maddinson has made a comeback into the T20 squad.

Australia will play five ODIs and a T20 match against England from June 13-27, before heading to Zimbabwe for a T20 tri-series series also involving&nbsp;Pakistan starting on July 1.

One-Day team:

Tim Paine, Aaron Finch (vc), Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, &nbsp;Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Nathan Lyon, Glenn Maxwell, Shaun Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, D’Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye.

T20 team:

Aaron Finch (c), &nbsp;Alex Carey (vc), Ashton Agar, Travis Head, Nic Maddinson, Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, D’Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Andrew Tye, Jack Wildermuth.

Aaron Finch was named the T-20 captain with Alex Carey as vice-captain.

Cricket Australia(CA) today announced a 15-man team to be captained by Tim Paine for ODI series against England starting next month. D’Arcy Short has made it to the ODI squad for the first time with Lathan Lyon making a comeback after two years. "England potentially have a number of left-handers in their side and we look forward to seeing what (Lyon) can produce with the white-ball in English conditions," said CA selector Trevor Hohns. "A decision on a permanent one-day captain will be made in due course," Hohns added. Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins were not included due to injury, the selectors said. "Tim is a strong leader and will captain the side for this series, supported by Aaron," selector Trevor Hohns said. "We have selected a 15-player squad as we push forward in our preparations for the World Cup in England in 2019," he added. Aaron Finch was named the T-20 captain with Alex Carey as vice-captain. Jack Wildermuth and Mitchell Swepson have made it into the squad for the first time. Nic Maddinson has made a comeback into the T20 squad. Australia will play five ODIs and a T20 match against England from June 13-27, before heading to Zimbabwe for a T20 tri-series series also involving Pakistan starting on July 1. One-Day team: Tim Paine, Aaron Finch (vc), Ashton Agar, Alex Carey, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Nathan Lyon, Glenn Maxwell, Shaun Marsh, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, D’Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Andrew Tye. T20 team: Aaron Finch (c), Alex Carey (vc), Ashton Agar, Travis Head, Nic Maddinson, Glenn Maxwell, Jhye Richardson, Kane Richardson, D’Arcy Short, Billy Stanlake, Marcus Stoinis, Mitchell Swepson, Andrew Tye, Jack Wildermuth.

Paine to lead Australia in ODI series against England; Finch named skipper in Zimbabwe T20 tri-series

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

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland on Wednesday said India's refusal to play a day-night Test during the series later this year is driven by a desperation to win Down Under even as the BCCI stayed firm in its rejection of the proposed match.

Sutherland feels that it is CA's prerogative to decide on the pink ball Test against India at Adelaide from December 6-10 but BCCI Committee of Administrators' chief Vinod Rai once again made it clear that the game will not take place.

"I think personally the home country should have the right to schedule matches as it sees fit and start them at whatever time of day they want," Sutherland told SEN Radio.

When CoA chief Rai was contacted by PTI, he said: "I don't think BCCI's stand will change. As it has already been decided, Day/Night pink ball matches will continue at the first-class level. Duleep Trophy will be played under lights once again."

Rai, however, said that India's reluctance to play Day/Night Test does not imply that the two boards are on collision course.

"I don't see this as a reason for friction (between boards). Playing condition is something that both the boards sit and decide upon. Obviously whatever happens is agreed mutually. But let me make it clear once again, there won't be any pink ball Test involving India," Rai said.

The day-night Test is a regular feature in Australia's home season since 2015.

Three day-night Tests have been held at the Adelaide Oval and one at the Gabba in Brisbane with Australia winning all of them. 
In fact, Sutherland went to the extent of saying that India are only focussed on "winning the series" rather looking at future of the game.

"India may or may not come around to that idea for this tour but I still believe it's the way of the future. I think everyone in world cricket knows that," said Sutherland.

"To be frank, I think they want to come out here and beat us. There's a sense, or a reality, that Australia has won each of the pink-ball Test matches that have played in Australia and there may be a sense that it gives us a bit of an advantage," he added.&nbsp

A senior BCCI official said there was nothing wrong in aiming for win.

"Obviously, we want to beat Australia in Australia and what's wrong in it? If they can strategise how easily they can beat us, we will look after our interests. The BCCI has never been convinced about the quality of pink kookaburra balls," he said.

"In fact, at an internal meeting, we had discussed that let's try Dukes pink ball for domestic tournament. There are a lot of factors. We can't just pander to Sutherland's wishes," he added. 
India will tour Australia for three T20Is, four Tests, and three ODIs from November 21 to January 19. 
&nbsp

Sutherland feels that it is CA's prerogative to decide on the pink ball Test against India

Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland on Wednesday said India's refusal to play a day-night Test during the series later this year is driven by a desperation to win Down Under even as the BCCI stayed firm in its rejection of the proposed match. Sutherland feels that it is CA's prerogative to decide on the pink ball Test against India at Adelaide from December 6-10 but BCCI Committee of Administrators' chief Vinod Rai once again made it clear that the game will not take place. "I think personally the home country should have the right to schedule matches as it sees fit and start them at whatever time of day they want," Sutherland told SEN Radio. When CoA chief Rai was contacted by PTI, he said: "I don't think BCCI's stand will change. As it has already been decided, Day/Night pink ball matches will continue at the first-class level. Duleep Trophy will be played under lights once again." Rai, however, said that India's reluctance to play Day/Night Test does not imply that the two boards are on collision course. "I don't see this as a reason for friction (between boards). Playing condition is something that both the boards sit and decide upon. Obviously whatever happens is agreed mutually. But let me make it clear once again, there won't be any pink ball Test involving India," Rai said. The day-night Test is a regular feature in Australia's home season since 2015. Three day-night Tests have been held at the Adelaide Oval and one at the Gabba in Brisbane with Australia winning all of them. In fact, Sutherland went to the extent of saying that India are only focussed on "winning the series" rather looking at future of the game. "India may or may not come around to that idea for this tour but I still believe it's the way of the future. I think everyone in world cricket knows that," said Sutherland. "To be frank, I think they want to come out here and beat us. There's a sense, or a reality, that Australia has won each of the pink-ball Test matches that have played in Australia and there may be a sense that it gives us a bit of an advantage," he added. A senior BCCI official said there was nothing wrong in aiming for win. "Obviously, we want to beat Australia in Australia and what's wrong in it? If they can strategise how easily they can beat us, we will look after our interests. The BCCI has never been convinced about the quality of pink kookaburra balls," he said. "In fact, at an internal meeting, we had discussed that let's try Dukes pink ball for domestic tournament. There are a lot of factors. We can't just pander to Sutherland's wishes," he added. India will tour Australia for three T20Is, four Tests, and three ODIs from November 21 to January 19.

India reluctant for day-night Test because they want to win: Cricket Australia

Sachin Tendulkar turned 45 today and wishes poured in from every corner of the world to wish the legendary Indian cricketer.

However, Cricket Australia (CA) pushed out a tongue-in-cheek tweet which left Tendulkar's fans fuming.

The Australian Cricket board&nbsp;wished former Australian fast bowler Damien Fleming and ignored Sachin.&nbsp;

CA's official Twitter handle also attached a video of the swing bowler taking a wicket with the batsman being none other than Sachin Tendulkar.

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Some <a href="https://twitter.com/bowlologist?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@bowlologist</a> gold from the man himself - happy birthday, Damien Fleming! <a href="https://t.co/YcoYA8GNOD">pic.twitter.com/YcoYA8GNOD</a>
— cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/988614485123387392?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Within minutes fans questioned CA's decision to put out the tweet on Tendulkar's birthday and said it was disrespectful to the batting legend.&nbsp;

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No matter how many bans, Australians will never change...? 
 
On Sachin's Birthday you are posting a video how Damien Fleming bowled him. Couldn't you find another batsman instead of Sachin? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdaySachin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdaySachin</a>
— शशांक (@iShhhshank) <a href="https://twitter.com/iShhhshank/status/988615325099941888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Have u lost your mind??? <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CricketAus</a> Shame on you..
— harshbelvalkar (@harshbelvalkar) <a href="https://twitter.com/harshbelvalkar/status/988669772832243712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Also sachin smashed Australian strong bowling attack back in 1998 ?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyBirthdaySachin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyBirthdaySachin</a> <a href="https://t.co/XZzwmNSzSF">https://t.co/XZzwmNSzSF</a>
— HBD தலைவா ??? (@freakoffl) <a href="https://twitter.com/freakoffl/status/988627075438333953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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Shame on Australia cricket...if u cant respect other player .... Australia cricket is the cheapest cricketer in world n people....like u r very cheap....there r no fault of smith n warner....u gave them tranning of that thats why the did that....
— Nikhil rakhonde (@Nikhilrakhonde1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nikhilrakhonde1/status/988667728826281984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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For the record, Fleming dismissed Tendulkar seven times in combined Test and ODIs.

Sachin Tendulkar turned 45 today and wishes poured in from every corner of the world to wish the legendary Indian cricketer. However, Cricket Australia (CA) pushed out a tongue-in-cheek tweet which left Tendulkar's fans fuming. The Australian Cricket board wished former Australian fast bowler Damien Fleming and ignored Sachin. CA's official Twitter handle also attached a video of the swing bowler taking a wicket with the batsman being none other than Sachin Tendulkar. Some @bowlologist gold from the man himself - happy birthday, Damien Fleming! pic.twitter.com/YcoYA8GNOD — cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) April 24, 2018 × Within minutes fans questioned CA's decision to put out the tweet on Tendulkar's birthday and said it was disrespectful to the batting legend. No matter how many bans, Australians will never change...? On Sachin's Birthday you are posting a video how Damien Fleming bowled him. Couldn't you find another batsman instead of Sachin? #HappyBirthdaySachin — शशांक (@iShhhshank) April 24, 2018 × Have u lost your mind??? @CricketAus Shame on you.. — harshbelvalkar (@harshbelvalkar) April 24, 2018 × Also sachin smashed Australian strong bowling attack back in 1998 ?#HappyBirthdaySachin https://t.co/XZzwmNSzSF — HBD தலைவா ??? (@freakoffl) April 24, 2018 × Shame on Australia cricket...if u cant respect other player .... Australia cricket is the cheapest cricketer in world n people....like u r very cheap....there r no fault of smith n warner....u gave them tranning of that thats why the did that.... — Nikhil rakhonde (@Nikhilrakhonde1) April 24, 2018 × For the record, Fleming dismissed Tendulkar seven times in combined Test and ODIs.

Cricket Australia posts cheeky tweet on Sachin Tendulkar's birthday, fans hit back

Recently, 12 months bans were handed out to former Australian captain Steve Smith and vice-captain &nbsp;David Warner and also a 9-month ban was handed out to the main culprit Cameron Bancroft for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal.

As the tampering scandal was revealed last month Australia men's cricket team was touring South Africa and were trounced by the hosts in the Test 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, which in the end was their undoing.

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.

David Warner and Steve Smith were also ruled out by BCCI-led IPL tournament. As a result lost out on multiple-million dollar contracts playing for Hyderabad and Rajasthan, a costly mistake for the duo in the end.

Although, all three of them are serving bans but they are still there in the cover photo of Cricket Australia's official Twitter handle.

In the cover photo, the Australian team is standing in their national One-Day International jersey.

See image:

<img alt="steve smith, david warner.jpg" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="430" src="http://images.wionews.com/iniline-images/sports/steve%20smith%2C%20david%20warner.jpg" width="770" />

Yesterday, Cricket Australia 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.

Steve Smith and David Warner are serving bans but they are still there in the cover photo of Cricket Australia's official Twitter handle

Recently, 12 months bans were handed out to former Australian captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner and also a 9-month ban was handed out to the main culprit Cameron Bancroft for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal. As the tampering scandal was revealed last month Australia men's cricket team was touring South Africa and were trounced by the hosts in the Test 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, which in the end was their undoing. 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. David Warner and Steve Smith were also ruled out by BCCI-led IPL tournament. As a result lost out on multiple-million dollar contracts playing for Hyderabad and Rajasthan, a costly mistake for the duo in the end. Although, all three of them are serving bans but they are still there in the cover photo of Cricket Australia's official Twitter handle. In the cover photo, the Australian team is standing in their national One-Day International jersey. See image: Yesterday, Cricket Australia 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.

Cricket Australia blooper: Banned Steve Smith, David Warner still on official Twitter handle

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>
— cricket.com.au (@CricketAus) <a href="https://twitter.com/CricketAus/status/987222652908552193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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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

Hours after Michael Clarke announced to make an international cricket comeback to help his side cope up with the ball-tampering fallout, the former Australian skipper on Sunday backed out from the news.

The right-hand batsman took to his Twitter handle to confirm the same.

He further said that he had contacted Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland to help out the Test side following the suspensions of cricketers David Warner, Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft.&nbsp

Clarkes' comeback news was doing the rounds after a leading publication published an article hinting that he might return as Australian skipper.

"This article is out of control! &nbspLet me make very clear that I &nbsphave not sent any formal offer to James Sutherland to come back and play cricket. I sent him a message as a friend offering to help Australian cricket in ANY way I could (this could mean mentoring the under 14s)," he tweeted.

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This article is out of control! Let me make very clear that I have not sent any formal offer to James Sutherland to come back and play cricket. I sent him a message as a friend offering to help Australian cricket in ANY way I could (this could mean mentoring the under 14s)
— Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) <a href="https://twitter.com/MClarke23/status/982772911407742978?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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I won’t be batting in the nets in India in preparation for a comeback ??? and as I have always said the game owes me nothing, I owe it everything. Have a great Sunday ??
— Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) <a href="https://twitter.com/MClarke23/status/982772950708371457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Clarke retired from international cricket in 2015 after his 115th and final Test of the unsuccessful Ashes tour of England.&nbsp

The right-hand batsman took to his Twitter handle to confirm the same

Hours after Michael Clarke announced to make an international cricket comeback to help his side cope up with the ball-tampering fallout, the former Australian skipper on Sunday backed out from the news. The right-hand batsman took to his Twitter handle to confirm the same. He further said that he had contacted Cricket Australia CEO James Sutherland to help out the Test side following the suspensions of cricketers David Warner, Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft. Clarkes' comeback news was doing the rounds after a leading publication published an article hinting that he might return as Australian skipper. "This article is out of control! &nbspLet me make very clear that I &nbsphave not sent any formal offer to James Sutherland to come back and play cricket. I sent him a message as a friend offering to help Australian cricket in ANY way I could (this could mean mentoring the under 14s)," he tweeted. This article is out of control! Let me make very clear that I have not sent any formal offer to James Sutherland to come back and play cricket. I sent him a message as a friend offering to help Australian cricket in ANY way I could (this could mean mentoring the under 14s) — Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) April 8, 2018 × I won’t be batting in the nets in India in preparation for a comeback ??? and as I have always said the game owes me nothing, I owe it everything. Have a great Sunday ?? — Michael Clarke (@MClarke23) April 8, 2018 × Clarke retired from international cricket in 2015 after his 115th and final Test of the unsuccessful Ashes tour of England.

'This article is out of control,'says Michael Clarke on his Australia comeback reports

Australian cricket team's&nbspformer vice-captain David Warner on Thursday joined Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft in deciding not to contest the sanctions imposed on him by Cricket Australia (CA) for his role in last month`s ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

The Australian board&nbspslapped Smith and Warner with 12-months bans, while Bancroft, who was caught using a piece of sandpaper on the ball in the third test in Cape Town, was suspended for nine months.

Confirming the same, Warner took to his Twitter account and accepted the sanctions imposed on him.&nbsp

"I have today let Cricket Australia know that I fully accept the sanctions imposed on me," Warner said on his verified Twitter account on Thursday.

"I am truly sorry for my actions and will now do everything I can to be a better person, teammate and role model."

Smith and Bancroft confirmed on Wednesday that they had accepted the CA sanctions.

Cricket Australia slapped Warner with a 12-months ban

Australian cricket team's&nbspformer vice-captain David Warner on Thursday joined Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft in deciding not to contest the sanctions imposed on him by Cricket Australia (CA) for his role in last month`s ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. The Australian board&nbspslapped Smith and Warner with 12-months bans, while Bancroft, who was caught using a piece of sandpaper on the ball in the third test in Cape Town, was suspended for nine months. Confirming the same, Warner took to his Twitter account and accepted the sanctions imposed on him. "I have today let Cricket Australia know that I fully accept the sanctions imposed on me," Warner said on his verified Twitter account on Thursday. "I am truly sorry for my actions and will now do everything I can to be a better person, teammate and role model." Smith and Bancroft confirmed on Wednesday that they had accepted the CA sanctions.

Australia's Warner follows Smith, Bancroft, says 'won't challenge ban'

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

He is relieved that the embarrassing episode is about to close

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

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

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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&nbsp;

See how Australians mentally disintegrate opponents:

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&nbsp;

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

South African batsman Heinrich Klaasen has been added in the place of Steve Smith.

Due to the recent ball-tampering scandal which happened in the third Test match of a four-match series between Australia and South Africa. The Board of Control for Cricket in India removed Steve Smith from the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League which is scheduled to start from April 7.

Klaasen had impressed the spectators during South Africa's recent series against India. He was named man of the match in the second ODI.

Wicketkeeper-batsman Klaasen, who made his one-day and T20 debut against India in February, was signed from the available player pool for INR&nbsp50 lakh deal, the IPL said.

Cricket Australian gave a 12-months ban to Smith, David Warner for 12 and a 9-month ban to Cameron Bancroft as they were found guilty of altering&nbspthe condition of the ball.

Steve Smith was supposed to lead the Royals' squad but after his ouster, Ajinkya Rahane will lead the squad.

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NEWS: South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen to replace Steve Smith in <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajasthanroyals</a>' squad for VIVO IPL 2018. 
 
More details here - <a href="https://t.co/pw3YmNuQrh">https://t.co/pw3YmNuQrh</a> <a href="https://t.co/qbDiOOptn6">pic.twitter.com/qbDiOOptn6</a>
— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/980717850384936960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp

&nbsp

South African batsman Heinrich Klaasen has been added in the place of Steve Smith in Rajasthan Royals' squad

South African batsman Heinrich Klaasen has been added in the place of Steve Smith. Due to the recent ball-tampering scandal which happened in the third Test match of a four-match series between Australia and South Africa. The Board of Control for Cricket in India removed Steve Smith from the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League which is scheduled to start from April 7. Klaasen had impressed the spectators during South Africa's recent series against India. He was named man of the match in the second ODI. Wicketkeeper-batsman Klaasen, who made his one-day and T20 debut against India in February, was signed from the available player pool for INR&nbsp50 lakh deal, the IPL said. Cricket Australian gave a 12-months ban to Smith, David Warner for 12 and a 9-month ban to Cameron Bancroft as they were found guilty of altering&nbspthe condition of the ball. Steve Smith was supposed to lead the Royals' squad but after his ouster, Ajinkya Rahane will lead the squad. NEWS: South Africa's Heinrich Klaasen to replace Steve Smith in @rajasthanroyals' squad for VIVO IPL 2018. More details here - https://t.co/pw3YmNuQrh pic.twitter.com/qbDiOOptn6 — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) April 2, 2018 ×

IPL 2018: Heinrich Klaasen replaces Steve Smith in Rajasthan Royals' squad

Days after Cricket Australia (CA) banned Steve Smith for 12 months for his role in the ball-tampering scandal that rocked the world of Cricket, his father Peter Smith, got so disturbed with the episode that he decided to dump his son's cricket kit in the garage.

The act was filmed where Peter can be seen dumping his son’s cricket bag into their family garage recently.

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Steve Smith's Father Peter Smith Dumps Son's Cricket Kit In Family Garage. Says, "He'd Be Fine, He'll Survive". <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SteveSmith?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SteveSmith</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallTamperingScandal?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallTamperingScandal</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BallTamperingRow?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BallTamperingRow</a> <a href="https://t.co/REsmTKscSa">pic.twitter.com/REsmTKscSa</a>
— Sir Ravindra Jadeja (@SirJadeja) <a href="https://twitter.com/SirJadeja/status/980099835637321729?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 31, 2018</a></blockquote>
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When asked about Steve’s condition, Peter was quick to respond saying, "He'll be fine, he'll survive, he'll survive," Peter said while he took the kit out of his car.

Smith conspired with his deputy David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft to alter the condition of the ball on the third day of the third Test during Australia's ongoing tour of South Africa.&nbsp;

Devastated by his on-field actions, Smith said: "I am sorry. Want to make it clear that as captain of the Australia Cricket team I take full responsibility. I made a serious error of judgment and I now understand the consequences."

Former Deputy captain David Warner has also been banned by CA for 12 months, while Bancroft has been slapped with a nine-month ban.

In the aftermath of the incident, the BCCI also decided to bar Smith (Rajasthan Royals) and Warner (Sunrisers Hyderabad) from playing the Indian Premier League 2018 season.&nbsp;

Devastated by his on-field actions, Steve Smith said, 'I am sorry'

Days after Cricket Australia (CA) banned Steve Smith for 12 months for his role in the ball-tampering scandal that rocked the world of Cricket, his father Peter Smith, got so disturbed with the episode that he decided to dump his son's cricket kit in the garage. The act was filmed where Peter can be seen dumping his son’s cricket bag into their family garage recently. Steve Smith's Father Peter Smith Dumps Son's Cricket Kit In Family Garage. Says, "He'd Be Fine, He'll Survive". #SteveSmith #BallTamperingScandal #BallTamperingRow pic.twitter.com/REsmTKscSa — Sir Ravindra Jadeja (@SirJadeja) March 31, 2018 × When asked about Steve’s condition, Peter was quick to respond saying, "He'll be fine, he'll survive, he'll survive," Peter said while he took the kit out of his car. Smith conspired with his deputy David Warner and batsman Cameron Bancroft to alter the condition of the ball on the third day of the third Test during Australia's ongoing tour of South Africa. Devastated by his on-field actions, Smith said: "I am sorry. Want to make it clear that as captain of the Australia Cricket team I take full responsibility. I made a serious error of judgment and I now understand the consequences." Former Deputy captain David Warner has also been banned by CA for 12 months, while Bancroft has been slapped with a nine-month ban. In the aftermath of the incident, the BCCI also decided to bar Smith (Rajasthan Royals) and Warner (Sunrisers Hyderabad) from playing the Indian Premier League 2018 season.

Watch: Steve Smith's father throws out his cricket gear

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