Dominant team India registered their status as the world's number one team by winning a historic first-ever series in Australia after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.&nbsp;

After scripting history, Virat-led was showered with praises from a former player Sunil Gavaskar. &nbsp;

He said, "India played the opposition they were presented with and it's a great achievement for them."

He further added, "It is not that teams that I was a part of didn't play to win. We also played to win but this team is at a different level in terms of fitness and the captain has shown the way. In our times, we used do our individual routines."&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-indias-unusual-victory-dance-after-historic-test-win-against-australia-that-cheteshwar-pujara-cant-do-188811">India's unusual victory dance after historic Test series win against Australia that Cheteshwar Pujara can't do</a>

Besides applauding the winning team, Gavaskar slammed the criticism that the historic win came against a weakened Australian team.&nbsp;

It was attributed to batting mainstays David Warner and Steve Smith's one-year ban on ball tampering charges but Gavaskar rejected the assertion.&nbsp;

"It is not India's fault that this Australian team was without David Warner and Steve Smith. Australia could have handed them shorter bans but obviously it was thought that one-year bans would be good for Australian cricket, that they needed to be made an example for anyone who brings the game into disrepute," Gavaskar said during a post-match show on 'Sony Six'.&nbsp;

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Some happy faces in the dressing room post the Historic win 🇮🇳🇮🇳📸 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvIND</a> <a href="https://t.co/nVosuIEwlt">pic.twitter.com/nVosuIEwlt</a>
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Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide.&nbsp;

"We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters.&nbsp;

"We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."&nbsp;

Dominant team India registered their status as the world's number one team by winning a historic first-ever series in Australia after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday.

Dominant team India registered their status as the world's number one team by winning a historic first-ever series in Australia after the weather-affected fourth match at the Sydney Cricket finished in a draw on Monday. After scripting history, Virat-led was showered with praises from a former player Sunil Gavaskar. He said, "India played the opposition they were presented with and it's a great achievement for them." He further added, "It is not that teams that I was a part of didn't play to win. We also played to win but this team is at a different level in terms of fitness and the captain has shown the way. In our times, we used do our individual routines." Watch: India's unusual victory dance after historic Test series win against Australia that Cheteshwar Pujara can't do Besides applauding the winning team, Gavaskar slammed the criticism that the historic win came against a weakened Australian team. It was attributed to batting mainstays David Warner and Steve Smith's one-year ban on ball tampering charges but Gavaskar rejected the assertion. "It is not India's fault that this Australian team was without David Warner and Steve Smith. Australia could have handed them shorter bans but obviously it was thought that one-year bans would be good for Australian cricket, that they needed to be made an example for anyone who brings the game into disrepute," Gavaskar said during a post-match show on 'Sony Six'. Some happy faces in the dressing room post the Historic win 🇮🇳🇮🇳📸 #TeamIndia #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/nVosuIEwlt — BCCI (@BCCI) January 7, 2019 × Paine admitted his inexperienced side had been completely outplayed in the last two matches in Melbourne and Sydney but thought the series might have panned out differently had the Australians done better in the opener in Adelaide. "We honestly feel that we let that Test match slip," he told reporters. "We're really disappointed," Paine said. "We know we had some guys missing but we honestly felt coming into this series that, particularly in Australia, we could beat India."

Not India's fault that Steve Smith and David Warner were not picked: Sunil Gavaskar slams critics

Australia's limited overs captain Aaron Finch feels the banned duo of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=steve+smith">Steve Smith</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=david+warner">David Warner</a> will be "welcomed back with open arms" despite doubts that the former vice-captain may be dumped.&nbsp;

Smith and Cameron Bancroft recently opened up about the infamous <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=ball+tampering">ball tampering incident</a> that shook world cricket in March. The duo made it clear in their recent interviews that Warner was the instigator of the ill-fated plan in Cape Town.&nbsp;

Some ex-players including former captain Ricky Ponting interpreted the comments as effectively making Warner the fall guy with Michael Slater saying that it would be difficult for the explosive left-hander to return to the team.&nbsp;

"When Davey and Steve are ready to be allowed to come back and play cricket for Australia and their states I think from my point of view, they'll be welcomed back with open arms," Finch was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au.&nbsp;

Finch added that both Smith and Warner would earn their Australian recalls when they return in three months.&nbsp;

"Whatever's happened, has happened. The punishment has been dealt. They've been working really hard off the field to meet every criteria, and go above and beyond everything that has been asked of them, to come back and play international cricket again," he said.&nbsp;

Smith and former vice-captain Warner were handed year-long international bans for their role in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in March, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months and is due to make a return on Saturday.&nbsp;

Asked if the Australian players have discussed the issue, Finch said: "There hasn't been any chat about it in the changeroom at all to be fair."&nbsp;

Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts had also stated that they had no plans of dumping Warner despite the recent unflattering statements by his two teammates

Australia's limited overs captain Aaron Finch feels the banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner will be "welcomed back with open arms" despite doubts that the former vice-captain may be dumped.

Australia's limited overs captain Aaron Finch feels the banned duo of Steve Smith and David Warner will be "welcomed back with open arms" despite doubts that the former vice-captain may be dumped. Smith and Cameron Bancroft recently opened up about the infamous ball tampering incident that shook world cricket in March. The duo made it clear in their recent interviews that Warner was the instigator of the ill-fated plan in Cape Town. Some ex-players including former captain Ricky Ponting interpreted the comments as effectively making Warner the fall guy with Michael Slater saying that it would be difficult for the explosive left-hander to return to the team. "When Davey and Steve are ready to be allowed to come back and play cricket for Australia and their states I think from my point of view, they'll be welcomed back with open arms," Finch was quoted as saying by cricket.Com.Au. Finch added that both Smith and Warner would earn their Australian recalls when they return in three months. "Whatever's happened, has happened. The punishment has been dealt. They've been working really hard off the field to meet every criteria, and go above and beyond everything that has been asked of them, to come back and play international cricket again," he said. Smith and former vice-captain Warner were handed year-long international bans for their role in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in March, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months and is due to make a return on Saturday. Asked if the Australian players have discussed the issue, Finch said: "There hasn't been any chat about it in the changeroom at all to be fair." Cricket Australia CEO Kevin Roberts had also stated that they had no plans of dumping Warner despite the recent unflattering statements by his two teammates

Steve Smith and David Warner will be welcomed back with open arms, says Aaron Finch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cameron Bancroft reveals he almost gave up cricket for yoga

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

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

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

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

Steve Smith has eye on World Cup and Ashes, expects English backlash

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

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

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

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

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

India captain Virat Kohli says he was sad to see the public backlash faced by Steve Smith and David Warner for their role in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa earlier this year.&nbsp;

Smith and Warner are currently serving one-year bans after being found of guilty of ball-tampering during the Cape Town Test in March.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Well, it was sad to see. As big a thing as it became, you never want to see anyone go through that because I have known David and I have known Steve as well," Kohli told former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist in an interview on a popular cricket related channel.

"Apart all the competitiveness on the field and all the battles that you have, you never want to see such a magnitude happen to two sportsmen and what happened after was, I felt, very bad. I felt like that the things happened after shouldn't have happened," he said.&nbsp;

Besides Smith and Warner, Cricket Australia also handed a nine-month ban to Cameron Bancroft for playing his part in the infamous incident that rocked the nation.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Upon their arrival from South Africa, Smith and Warner were treated like criminals and that did not go down well with many former players.&nbsp;

Kohli too was affected by the entire episode.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The things that hit me the hardest was the way they were received at the airports and the way they were escorted out. Those things to me felt like this is very, very hectic.&nbsp;

"It is not my place to comment on the decisions but to treat people like that for me it was unpleasant to see. I would never want to experience that as a cricketer," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Without Smith and Warner, not many are backing the Australian team to win the ongoing four-Test series against India.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India on Monday <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-beat-australia-by-31-runs-to-clinch-first-test-182794">won the first Test by 31 runs </a>to draw first blood in the series.&nbsp;

India captain Virat Kohli says he was sad to see the public backlash faced by Steve Smith and David Warner for their role in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa earlier this year.

India captain Virat Kohli says he was sad to see the public backlash faced by Steve Smith and David Warner for their role in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa earlier this year. Smith and Warner are currently serving one-year bans after being found of guilty of ball-tampering during the Cape Town Test in March. "Well, it was sad to see. As big a thing as it became, you never want to see anyone go through that because I have known David and I have known Steve as well," Kohli told former Australian wicketkeeper Adam Gilchrist in an interview on a popular cricket related channel. "Apart all the competitiveness on the field and all the battles that you have, you never want to see such a magnitude happen to two sportsmen and what happened after was, I felt, very bad. I felt like that the things happened after shouldn't have happened," he said. Besides Smith and Warner, Cricket Australia also handed a nine-month ban to Cameron Bancroft for playing his part in the infamous incident that rocked the nation. × Upon their arrival from South Africa, Smith and Warner were treated like criminals and that did not go down well with many former players. Kohli too was affected by the entire episode. "The things that hit me the hardest was the way they were received at the airports and the way they were escorted out. Those things to me felt like this is very, very hectic. "It is not my place to comment on the decisions but to treat people like that for me it was unpleasant to see. I would never want to experience that as a cricketer," he added. Without Smith and Warner, not many are backing the Australian team to win the ongoing four-Test series against India. India on Monday won the first Test by 31 runs to draw first blood in the series.

Virat Kohli speaks on Smith, Warner ball-tampering bans

They might have been banned from turning out for Australia but disgraced batting duo of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=steve+smith">Steve Smith</a> and <a href="http://www.wionews.com/search?q=david+warner">David Warner</a> are going out of their way to prepare their bowlers for the upcoming four-Test series against India.&nbsp;

Both former skipper Smith and Warner have agreed to turn out at the Australia nets to bat against the pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins to prepare them to face Virat Kohli and Co in the upcoming four-Test series.&nbsp;

Any hopes of Smith and Warner wearing the baggy green this summer were dashed when Cricket Australia board upheld the bans last week but the former captain and his deputy is still playing a big role behind the scenes.&nbsp;

Smith is expected to face Hazlewood, Starc and Cummins at the Sydney Cricket Ground nets this week as Australia round off their preparations for the first Test starting December 6 at Adelaide.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-australia-2018-19-schedule-teams-time-and-venue-177740">India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue</a>

"He's (Smith) someone the three of us have bowled a fair bit to over the last little while at training," Starc told to a media.&nbsp;

"To get the view of a batsman who is facing us, get his opinion on how we're tracking, is always great as well.&nbsp;

"There's talking bowling coaches then there's talking to the guys you're bowling to. That's a great opportunity to have him face us in our preparation leading up to the Tests," he added.&nbsp;

Starc said when they asked Smith to help them prepare for the Test series, he was more than willing to oblige.&nbsp;

"He was around training (Thursday) with the Blues. We said we have a few overs to bowl next week and we said if you want to have a hit he was more than happy to oblige," Starc said.&nbsp;

"It'll be great to bowl to him in the nets. He's one of the best in the world, to even get his thoughts on how we're tracking will always be good for us."

While Smith will turn out at the Australia nets later this week, Warner came in the SCG nets before the third T20I against India on Sunday and faced the Aussie fast bowlers in the nets.&nbsp;

Warner appeared in the net session and Cummins and Hazlewood were also seen getting some tips from coach Justin Langer.

They might have been banned from turning out for Australia but disgraced batting duo of Steve Smith and David Warner are going out of their way to prepare their bowlers for the upcoming four-Test series against India.

They might have been banned from turning out for Australia but disgraced batting duo of Steve Smith and David Warner are going out of their way to prepare their bowlers for the upcoming four-Test series against India. Both former skipper Smith and Warner have agreed to turn out at the Australia nets to bat against the pace trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins to prepare them to face Virat Kohli and Co in the upcoming four-Test series. Any hopes of Smith and Warner wearing the baggy green this summer were dashed when Cricket Australia board upheld the bans last week but the former captain and his deputy is still playing a big role behind the scenes. Smith is expected to face Hazlewood, Starc and Cummins at the Sydney Cricket Ground nets this week as Australia round off their preparations for the first Test starting December 6 at Adelaide. India vs Australia 2018-19: Schedule, Squad, Time and Venue "He's (Smith) someone the three of us have bowled a fair bit to over the last little while at training," Starc told to a media. "To get the view of a batsman who is facing us, get his opinion on how we're tracking, is always great as well. "There's talking bowling coaches then there's talking to the guys you're bowling to. That's a great opportunity to have him face us in our preparation leading up to the Tests," he added. Starc said when they asked Smith to help them prepare for the Test series, he was more than willing to oblige. "He was around training (Thursday) with the Blues. We said we have a few overs to bowl next week and we said if you want to have a hit he was more than happy to oblige," Starc said. "It'll be great to bowl to him in the nets. He's one of the best in the world, to even get his thoughts on how we're tracking will always be good for us." While Smith will turn out at the Australia nets later this week, Warner came in the SCG nets before the third T20I against India on Sunday and faced the Aussie fast bowlers in the nets. Warner appeared in the net session and Cummins and Hazlewood were also seen getting some tips from coach Justin Langer.

Banned Steve Smith, David Warner help Oz pacers prep for Virat and co.

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

Former Australia captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner have been retained by their respective Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises after the duo missed the previous edition following the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

The pair are serving year-long bans for their part in the Cape Town incident in March and were barred from the 2018 IPL tournament.

The 12th edition of the lucrative Twenty20 league will be played from March 29 to May 19, having been brought forward because of the 50-over World Cup in England, which begins on May 30.

The batsmen's bans will end on the same day the tournament starts and they could end up playing in the IPL before their compatriots after Cricket Australia (CA) imposed a series of conditions for the participation of contracted players.

Australian cricketers need to receive permission from their home board and must be available to play at the World Cup and on the Ashes tour of England that follows in August and September.

CA said players involved in the Sheffield Shield final will only be released once that concluded on April 1, while the 15 players selected to defend the World Cup must attend a mandatory training camp in early May and play warm-up matches.

Smith has also been banned from taking on a leadership position for an additional 12 months and Warner, who led the Sunrisers Hyderabad to a maiden IPL title in 2016, will not be allowed to serve in an Australian leadership position again.

The Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers paid $1.67 million each at last year's IPL auction for the services of Smith and Warner.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner have been retained by their respective Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises after the duo missed the previous edition following the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Former Australia captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner have been retained by their respective Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises after the duo missed the previous edition following the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. The pair are serving year-long bans for their part in the Cape Town incident in March and were barred from the 2018 IPL tournament. The 12th edition of the lucrative Twenty20 league will be played from March 29 to May 19, having been brought forward because of the 50-over World Cup in England, which begins on May 30. The batsmen's bans will end on the same day the tournament starts and they could end up playing in the IPL before their compatriots after Cricket Australia (CA) imposed a series of conditions for the participation of contracted players. Australian cricketers need to receive permission from their home board and must be available to play at the World Cup and on the Ashes tour of England that follows in August and September. CA said players involved in the Sheffield Shield final will only be released once that concluded on April 1, while the 15 players selected to defend the World Cup must attend a mandatory training camp in early May and play warm-up matches. Smith has also been banned from taking on a leadership position for an additional 12 months and Warner, who led the Sunrisers Hyderabad to a maiden IPL title in 2016, will not be allowed to serve in an Australian leadership position again. The Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers paid $1.67 million each at last year's IPL auction for the services of Smith and Warner.

Smith, Warner to make IPL return next year

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

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

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

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

Justin Langer vows to put smile back into Australian cricket

Fast bowling great Jeff Thomson Friday said India are favourites to "steamroll" Australia in the Test series Down Under due to the absence of the experienced duo of Steve Smith and David Warner.&nbsp;

Thomson, arguably the fastest bowler in Test cricket history, said the Australian batting looks ordinary in the absence of Smith and Warner, who both were handed 12-month bans for their involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town.&nbsp;

"You (India) have a solid team, a very good fast bowling unit and you should win if you play hard in the upcoming series. There is no reason why you should not steamroll Australia which will be without Smith and Warner. Without these two, the Australian batting line-up is very average," said the 68-year-old Thomson.&nbsp;

He was speaking during a discussion at the Ekamra Sports Literary Festival here on the topic 'The Death of Test Fast Bowler', which the organisers claimed as Asia's first such initiative.&nbsp;

"You see the footwork of the Australians during the series against Pakistan (in the UAE which they lost 0-1). They lack technique, they just want to smack the ball out of the park, which is due to playing too many T20 and ODI matches," said the Australian, who took 200 wickets in 51 Tests between 1973-1985.&nbsp;

India will tour Australia for a four-Test series beginning December 6 at Adelaide.&nbsp;

Thomson said the ball-tampering controversy had embarrassed the Australian sports fraternity but felt the 12-month ban imposed on Smith and Warner was not justified.&nbsp;

"Banning them for such a long period of 12 months is ridiculous. I heard that the ban was to be for six months but one person (the Australian Prime Minister) who has no business in the issue called up and it was changed to 12 months," he said.&nbsp;

Thomson did not give a definitive answer when asked if Virat Kohli is the new Sachin Tendulkar.&nbsp;

"I feel Virat Kohli is emerging as a great player but he might have played differently in an earlier time. These days, a batsman will not score for two overs and then score a boundary with a stupid shot. At times, not getting out is the mindset of a batsman," he said.&nbsp;

"I think other team members (than Kohli) should play tough cricket like he plays. When he is out, other members should show the fighting spirit. If you score 300-350 you should win (in Australia)," he added.&nbsp;

He said he must have clocked 110 miles/hr in his playing days if the measurement was done similar to the current practice.&nbsp;

"During my time, the speed was measured at the impact of the ball with the bat and now it is done when the ball leaves the hand. I think I must have clocked 175 km/hr in the current measurement system," he said.&nbsp;

"Many a times when I bowled at the WACA, the ball used to bounce past the batsman to hit the side screen."&nbsp;

Asked if he remembers an incident when Sri Lankan Duleep Mendis was offered to lodge police complaint after being hit by his delivery, Thomson said: "I don't know about that but I am happy that I retired without inflicting any serious injury to anybody.&nbsp;

"At that time, there were no helmets, pitches were different and no limitation of bouncers but still no major injury occurred from my bowling."&nbsp;

On the playing conditions nowadays, he said, "It is heavily tilted towards batsmen. The balls are a problem, pitches have changed and have become flat, boundaries are smaller, bats are heavier and miss hits can go to boundaries."&nbsp;

Asked to name the five best batsmen in the world he has bowled to during his career, he mentioned Brian Lara, Vivian Richards, Sunil Gavaskar, Greg Chappell and Barry Richards.&nbsp;

Lara though started playing after his retirement.&nbsp;

"I have not played against Don Bradman and Gary Sobers and so they are not in my choices," he said.

Fast bowling great Jeff Thomson Friday said India are favourites to "steamroll" Australia in the Test series Down Under due to the absence of the experienced duo of Steve Smith and David Warner.

Fast bowling great Jeff Thomson Friday said India are favourites to "steamroll" Australia in the Test series Down Under due to the absence of the experienced duo of Steve Smith and David Warner. Thomson, arguably the fastest bowler in Test cricket history, said the Australian batting looks ordinary in the absence of Smith and Warner, who both were handed 12-month bans for their involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal in Cape Town. "You (India) have a solid team, a very good fast bowling unit and you should win if you play hard in the upcoming series. There is no reason why you should not steamroll Australia which will be without Smith and Warner. Without these two, the Australian batting line-up is very average," said the 68-year-old Thomson. He was speaking during a discussion at the Ekamra Sports Literary Festival here on the topic 'The Death of Test Fast Bowler', which the organisers claimed as Asia's first such initiative. "You see the footwork of the Australians during the series against Pakistan (in the UAE which they lost 0-1). They lack technique, they just want to smack the ball out of the park, which is due to playing too many T20 and ODI matches," said the Australian, who took 200 wickets in 51 Tests between 1973-1985. India will tour Australia for a four-Test series beginning December 6 at Adelaide. Thomson said the ball-tampering controversy had embarrassed the Australian sports fraternity but felt the 12-month ban imposed on Smith and Warner was not justified. "Banning them for such a long period of 12 months is ridiculous. I heard that the ban was to be for six months but one person (the Australian Prime Minister) who has no business in the issue called up and it was changed to 12 months," he said. Thomson did not give a definitive answer when asked if Virat Kohli is the new Sachin Tendulkar. "I feel Virat Kohli is emerging as a great player but he might have played differently in an earlier time. These days, a batsman will not score for two overs and then score a boundary with a stupid shot. At times, not getting out is the mindset of a batsman," he said. "I think other team members (than Kohli) should play tough cricket like he plays. When he is out, other members should show the fighting spirit. If you score 300-350 you should win (in Australia)," he added. He said he must have clocked 110 miles/hr in his playing days if the measurement was done similar to the current practice. "During my time, the speed was measured at the impact of the ball with the bat and now it is done when the ball leaves the hand. I think I must have clocked 175 km/hr in the current measurement system," he said. "Many a times when I bowled at the WACA, the ball used to bounce past the batsman to hit the side screen." Asked if he remembers an incident when Sri Lankan Duleep Mendis was offered to lodge police complaint after being hit by his delivery, Thomson said: "I don't know about that but I am happy that I retired without inflicting any serious injury to anybody. "At that time, there were no helmets, pitches were different and no limitation of bouncers but still no major injury occurred from my bowling." On the playing conditions nowadays, he said, "It is heavily tilted towards batsmen. The balls are a problem, pitches have changed and have become flat, boundaries are smaller, bats are heavier and miss hits can go to boundaries." Asked to name the five best batsmen in the world he has bowled to during his career, he mentioned Brian Lara, Vivian Richards, Sunil Gavaskar, Greg Chappell and Barry Richards. Lara though started playing after his retirement. "I have not played against Don Bradman and Gary Sobers and so they are not in my choices," he said.

India are favourites against Australian in absence of Steve Smith, David Warner: Jeff Thomson

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

Absence of stringent punishment for ball tampering encouraged players to cross the line, says former Australia captain Steve Waugh, who blames the authorities for the 'sandpaper gate' that led to the&nbsp;suspension of Steve Smith and David Warner.

Smith and Warner were slapped with a one-year international ban while Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months by Cricket Australia in March this year for their role in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.

Ball-tampering was classed as a level two offence under the ICC code of conduct when the Newlands incident unfolded, but it has since been elevated to a level three category, which carries a ban of up to six Tests or 12 ODIs.

"You know they push the boundaries a bit by throwing the ball into the rough on the ground, which they shouldn't do and then it's escalated from there. It's a shame how it got to the point that it did but I guess the authorities let that happen," Waugh told ESPNcricinfo at a Laureus event in Paris.

"There have been captains in the past who have been done for tampering with the ball and the penalties have been very lenient so there was no penalty for doing something wrong and it was always going to get to the case where it got out of control."

Waugh said Australia's internal system was such that the players had lost touch with reality, thinking they are larger than the sport.

"They are in a bit of a bubble and they are protected, you know they are insulated from a lot of things. They've got a lot of people around the side that protect them and tell them how good they are and how everything's fantastic and sometimes you can lose touch with reality and I think that was best summed up when Steve Smith said that 'we won't make that same mistake again and we'll just get on with it'.

"They just didn't realise how big a mistake it was and what they'd actually done. So that, to me, just summed up that maybe they were out of touch with what the average person thinks."

The bans on the players will end in March 2019, opening up opportunity for them to get back to the side for the World Cup and Australia's Ashes tour.

Waugh feels dealing with public will be the biggest mental battle the trio will face.

"I know that Smith will be passionate, he's still only young, he loves cricket and he's got that drive to get back there. His biggest challenge will be to overcome people talking about it, because the rest of his life someone will probably mention it once a day. What happened?

"So he's going to have to mentally overcome that and find a way to sort of get past that but at the end of the day he's an outstanding cricketer and averages 60 in Test cricket, second only to Bradman over a long period of time, and he loves cricket so I'm sure he'll come back.

"Warner is a tremendous cricketer. A lot of passion, still very young. It's really up to those guys. They've got to have the passion, they've got to have the desire but I think it's a great chance of redemption. The Australian public will forgive and move on and they have an opportunity to really be role models to kids going forward."&nbsp;

Absence of stringent punishment for ball tampering encouraged players to cross the line, says former Australia captain Steve Waugh, who blames the authorities for the 'sandpaper gate' that led to the suspension of Steve Smith and David Warner.

Absence of stringent punishment for ball tampering encouraged players to cross the line, says former Australia captain Steve Waugh, who blames the authorities for the 'sandpaper gate' that led to the suspension of Steve Smith and David Warner. Smith and Warner were slapped with a one-year international ban while Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months by Cricket Australia in March this year for their role in the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa. Ball-tampering was classed as a level two offence under the ICC code of conduct when the Newlands incident unfolded, but it has since been elevated to a level three category, which carries a ban of up to six Tests or 12 ODIs. "You know they push the boundaries a bit by throwing the ball into the rough on the ground, which they shouldn't do and then it's escalated from there. It's a shame how it got to the point that it did but I guess the authorities let that happen," Waugh told ESPNcricinfo at a Laureus event in Paris. "There have been captains in the past who have been done for tampering with the ball and the penalties have been very lenient so there was no penalty for doing something wrong and it was always going to get to the case where it got out of control." Waugh said Australia's internal system was such that the players had lost touch with reality, thinking they are larger than the sport. "They are in a bit of a bubble and they are protected, you know they are insulated from a lot of things. They've got a lot of people around the side that protect them and tell them how good they are and how everything's fantastic and sometimes you can lose touch with reality and I think that was best summed up when Steve Smith said that 'we won't make that same mistake again and we'll just get on with it'. "They just didn't realise how big a mistake it was and what they'd actually done. So that, to me, just summed up that maybe they were out of touch with what the average person thinks." The bans on the players will end in March 2019, opening up opportunity for them to get back to the side for the World Cup and Australia's Ashes tour. Waugh feels dealing with public will be the biggest mental battle the trio will face. "I know that Smith will be passionate, he's still only young, he loves cricket and he's got that drive to get back there. His biggest challenge will be to overcome people talking about it, because the rest of his life someone will probably mention it once a day. What happened? "So he's going to have to mentally overcome that and find a way to sort of get past that but at the end of the day he's an outstanding cricketer and averages 60 in Test cricket, second only to Bradman over a long period of time, and he loves cricket so I'm sure he'll come back. "Warner is a tremendous cricketer. A lot of passion, still very young. It's really up to those guys. They've got to have the passion, they've got to have the desire but I think it's a great chance of redemption. The Australian public will forgive and move on and they have an opportunity to really be role models to kids going forward."

Lenient punishment in past led to Cape Town ball-tampering fallout, says Steve Waugh

India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar feels that the upcoming Australia tour will be challenging even though the hosts will be without their two star players -- David Warner and Steve Smith.

The 28-year-old also believes that no overseas tour is easy.

"It (the Australian tour) will be challenging, no tour is easy. But Australia will be challenging because when you play outside your home (country) you need to adapt to certain conditions. It won't be easy for bowlers as there is hardly any movement these days," Bhuvneshwar told a select group of reporters here on Monday.

Australia will not be having the services of Smith and Warner, who are serving a one-year ban for ball-tampering during Australia's previous visit to South Africa.

Asked how the absence of Smith and Warner will affect Australia, Bhuvneshwar said: "I cannot say that we will overcome them. They don't have the two batsman (Smith and Warner), who have done well over the years. (But) there are other batsmen in their place and it is not that they aren't good."

"Its their home conditions. For us, if the two (Smith and Warner) were there, it is a challenge, now they are not there, it will still be a challenge," the Uttar Pradesh fast bowler said.

"If it would have been easy, we would have always won the series (in the past). It won't be easy. Our preparation in the practise matches there will matter," he said.&nbsp;

Bhuvneshwar is now associated with ASICS and was in the city for its promotion.

India are set to tour Down Under for a four Test match series, which begins with the first Test at Adelaide on December 6.

Bhuvneshwar has been rested for the first two ODIs against the West Indies.&nbsp;

The right-arm fast bowler, who has played 92 ODIs and 21 Tests, lauded the rotation policy of the team management.&nbsp;

"The way fast bowlers are managed, the rotation policy is in a way good, as we get a break and others get a chance and the body remains fresh," he said.

He also stressed on the need to have breaks.

"Breaks are needed after you play a long tour. You are mentally tired, like Jasprit (Bumrah) said when you return you are fresh and are rearing to go. Hence breaks are needed, as your body gets tired," he said.

India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar feels that the upcoming Australia tour will be challenging even though the hosts will be without their two star players -- David Warner and Steve Smith.

India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar feels that the upcoming Australia tour will be challenging even though the hosts will be without their two star players -- David Warner and Steve Smith. The 28-year-old also believes that no overseas tour is easy. "It (the Australian tour) will be challenging, no tour is easy. But Australia will be challenging because when you play outside your home (country) you need to adapt to certain conditions. It won't be easy for bowlers as there is hardly any movement these days," Bhuvneshwar told a select group of reporters here on Monday. Australia will not be having the services of Smith and Warner, who are serving a one-year ban for ball-tampering during Australia's previous visit to South Africa. Asked how the absence of Smith and Warner will affect Australia, Bhuvneshwar said: "I cannot say that we will overcome them. They don't have the two batsman (Smith and Warner), who have done well over the years. (But) there are other batsmen in their place and it is not that they aren't good." "Its their home conditions. For us, if the two (Smith and Warner) were there, it is a challenge, now they are not there, it will still be a challenge," the Uttar Pradesh fast bowler said. "If it would have been easy, we would have always won the series (in the past). It won't be easy. Our preparation in the practise matches there will matter," he said. Bhuvneshwar is now associated with ASICS and was in the city for its promotion. India are set to tour Down Under for a four Test match series, which begins with the first Test at Adelaide on December 6. Bhuvneshwar has been rested for the first two ODIs against the West Indies. The right-arm fast bowler, who has played 92 ODIs and 21 Tests, lauded the rotation policy of the team management. "The way fast bowlers are managed, the rotation policy is in a way good, as we get a break and others get a chance and the body remains fresh," he said. He also stressed on the need to have breaks. "Breaks are needed after you play a long tour. You are mentally tired, like Jasprit (Bumrah) said when you return you are fresh and are rearing to go. Hence breaks are needed, as your body gets tired," he said.

Australia tour will be challenging despite absence of Warner and Smith: Bhuvneshwar

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

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

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

Smith, Warner to mentor team mates on club return

Former Australia captain Steve Smith says he cried for four days as he tried to cope with the fallout from the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in March.

Smith and former test vice-captain David Warner were handed 12-month bans by Cricket Australia (CA) after admitting a plan to tamper the ball during the third test against South Africa in Cape Town.

The duo lost their leadership positions and were sent home after the incident with Smith breaking down in tears while apologising at an emotional press conference at Sydney Airport.

"To be honest, I probably spent four days in tears," Smith told students at a school according to the Sydney Morning Herald.

"I was really struggling mentally and I was really lucky that I had some close friends and family members that I could speak to at all hours of the day.

"The people that I had supporting me through that whole time made a huge difference to the headspace I am in now."

Smith and Warner are scheduled to return to competitive action in the Global T20 Canada, a tournament that starts on June 28.

Junior batsman Cameron Bancroft was banned for nine months for his role in the incident.

Smith and Warner are scheduled to return to competitive action in the Global T20 Canada, a tournament that starts on June 28

Former Australia captain Steve Smith says he cried for four days as he tried to cope with the fallout from the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in March. Smith and former test vice-captain David Warner were handed 12-month bans by Cricket Australia (CA) after admitting a plan to tamper the ball during the third test against South Africa in Cape Town. The duo lost their leadership positions and were sent home after the incident with Smith breaking down in tears while apologising at an emotional press conference at Sydney Airport. "To be honest, I probably spent four days in tears," Smith told students at a school according to the Sydney Morning Herald. "I was really struggling mentally and I was really lucky that I had some close friends and family members that I could speak to at all hours of the day. "The people that I had supporting me through that whole time made a huge difference to the headspace I am in now." Smith and Warner are scheduled to return to competitive action in the Global T20 Canada, a tournament that starts on June 28. Junior batsman Cameron Bancroft was banned for nine months for his role in the incident.

'I probably spent four days in tears,' says Steve Smith on ball-tampering scandal

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

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

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

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

Former Australia skipper Steve Smith, who is serving a 12-month ban for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal, may return to the ground next month.

Smith has been named as one of the 10 marquee players for the proposed Global T20 Canada league.

As per reports, if the tournament proceeds as scheduled in June, it will mark Smith's first cricket action since Cricket Australia (CA) had put a 12-month ban on him from all international and domestic cricket.

However, the ban doesn't extend to club cricket or global leagues, but Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan chose to drop him for the 2018 edition.

Besides Smith, explosive opener Chris Lynn is the other Australian in the list which also features Shahid Afridi (Pakistan), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Dwayne Bravo, Chris Gayle, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell and Darren Sammy (West Indies) and David Miller (South Africa).

The tournament will be commenced from June 28 to July 15 and comprises six teams - five from Canada and one Cricket West Indies representative team - playing 22 matches.&nbsp 
&nbsp

It will be Smith's first cricket action since Cricket Australia (CA) had put a 12-month ban on him from all international and domestic cricket

Former Australia skipper Steve Smith, who is serving a 12-month ban for his involvement in the infamous ball-tampering scandal, may return to the ground next month. Smith has been named as one of the 10 marquee players for the proposed Global T20 Canada league. As per reports, if the tournament proceeds as scheduled in June, it will mark Smith's first cricket action since Cricket Australia (CA) had put a 12-month ban on him from all international and domestic cricket. However, the ban doesn't extend to club cricket or global leagues, but Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Rajasthan chose to drop him for the 2018 edition. Besides Smith, explosive opener Chris Lynn is the other Australian in the list which also features Shahid Afridi (Pakistan), Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka), Dwayne Bravo, Chris Gayle, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell and Darren Sammy (West Indies) and David Miller (South Africa). The tournament will be commenced from June 28 to July 15 and comprises six teams - five from Canada and one Cricket West Indies representative team - playing 22 matches.

Despite ban, Steve Smith returns to cricket world next month

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

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

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

Cameron Bancroft been cleared to play club cricket

Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann said that he is worried about Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, who were banned recently for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal. He also mentioned that he hopes that all the three players will return to their international services after serving the ban.

Following the ball-tampering scandal that had stunned the cricket fraternity, Lehmann had stepped down from his position which was recently filled by Justin Langer.

In a recent interview with an Australia based radio channel, Lehmann&nbsp;said that all&nbsp;three players are fantastic and have paid the price.

Steve Smith and David Warner are serving a 12-month ban and the main culprit David Bancroft was banned for 9 months for his involvement in the ball-tampering scandal which was revealed in March 2018 when Australia men's cricket team was touring South Africa for a four-Test match series.

During the third Test at Cape Town, Cameron Bancroft was found guilty of altering the condition of the ball by using sandpaper in order to ‘reverse swing’ the ball.

The incident was caught in various cameras around the ground. Bancroft and Smith accepted that they were involved in the ball tampering mess and eventually strict punishments followed by Cricket Australia.

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

Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann said that he is worried about Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, who were banned recently for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal. He also mentioned that he hopes that all the three players will return to their international services after serving the ban. Following the ball-tampering scandal that had stunned the cricket fraternity, Lehmann had stepped down from his position which was recently filled by Justin Langer. In a recent interview with an Australia based radio channel, Lehmann said that all three players are fantastic and have paid the price. Steve Smith and David Warner are serving a 12-month ban and the main culprit David Bancroft was banned for 9 months for his involvement in the ball-tampering scandal which was revealed in March 2018 when Australia men's cricket team was touring South Africa for a four-Test match series. During the third Test at Cape Town, Cameron Bancroft was found guilty of altering the condition of the ball by using sandpaper in order to ‘reverse swing’ the ball. The incident was caught in various cameras around the ground. Bancroft and Smith accepted that they were involved in the ball tampering mess and eventually strict punishments followed by Cricket Australia.

Worried about banned Smith, Warner and Cameron: Darren Lehmann

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

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

Former Australian captain of men's cricket Steve Smith is currently serving a 12-month ban for his involvement in the ball-tampering scandal which was revealed in March 2018 when Australia men's cricket team was touring South Africa for a four-Test match series. During the third Test at Cape Town, Cameron Bancroft was found guilty of altering the condition of the ball by using sandpaper in order to ‘reverse swing’ the ball. The incident was caught in various cameras around the ground. Bancroft and Smith accepted that they were involved in the ball tampering mess and eventually punishments followed and with it came the tears- live on TV. On Friday, May 4, Steve Smith shared a picture with his wife Dani Willis and thanked fans and followers who have supported him during his difficult times through letters and emails. "I have had some time away to come to terms with everything and now it’s time to get back into it. The amount of emails and letters I have received has been incredible and I have been extremely humbled by the enormous amount of support you have given me," said former Australian skipper Steve Smith. He also said, "I now have a lot to do to earn back your trust." Here is the post: It’s great to be back home in Australia. I have had some time away to come to terms with everything and now it’s time to get back into it. The amount of emails and letters I have received has been incredible and I have been extremely humbled by the enormous amount of support you have given me. I now have a lot to do to earn back your trust. To my Mum, Dad and Dani you have been my rock through this and I can’t thank you enough. Family is the most important thing in the world and I thank you for your love and support. A post shared by Steve Smith (@steve_smith49) on May 3, 2018 at 8:30pm PDT ×

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

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

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

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

Gary Kirsten sees recovering Australia as genuine World Cup contenders

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

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

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

Justin Langer to be new coach of Australia

Dave Richardson, chief executive of the International Cricket Council (ICC) has asked an internal panel to suggest some harsh punishments to the players for misbehaving and cheating on the field.

In a recent media interaction, Richardson said that the punishment for misbehaviour and cheating were inadequate and the rules to check the code and conduct of players must get strengthen.

Richardson indicated the recent ball-tampering saga which was revealed last month when Australia men's cricket team was touring South Africa and were defeated 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.

The incident was caught in various cameras on 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.

ICC had given one day ban to former Australian captain Steve Smith, vice-captain David Warner and Cameron Bancroft for their involvements in the ball-tampering scandal.

On the other hand, 12 months bans were handed out to Smith and Warner and also a 9-month ban was handed out to the main culprit Cameron Bancroft.

ICC's Cricket Committee, chaired by former India captain Anil Kumble, will review the current ICC code of conduct and recommend suitable punishments for rogue behaviour.

Borrowing soccer's red and yellow cards and handing out instant punishment would be considered, though Richardson was sceptical about the idea of using cards. He further said that currently, under the existing laws the, however, the umpire has the authority to mark a penalty for 5 runs on the team breaking the rules.

Richardson said it could prove a major step towards cricket's Olympic inclusion at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

Dave Richardson, chief executive of the International Cricket Council (ICC) has asked an internal panel to suggest some harsh punishments to the players for misbehaving and cheating on the field

Dave Richardson, chief executive of the International Cricket Council (ICC) has asked an internal panel to suggest some harsh punishments to the players for misbehaving and cheating on the field. In a recent media interaction, Richardson said that the punishment for misbehaviour and cheating were inadequate and the rules to check the code and conduct of players must get strengthen. Richardson indicated the recent ball-tampering saga which was revealed last month when Australia men's cricket team was touring South Africa and were defeated 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. The incident was caught in various cameras on 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. ICC had given one day ban to former Australian captain Steve Smith, vice-captain David Warner and Cameron Bancroft for their involvements in the ball-tampering scandal. On the other hand, 12 months bans were handed out to Smith and Warner and also a 9-month ban was handed out to the main culprit Cameron Bancroft. ICC's Cricket Committee, chaired by former India captain Anil Kumble, will review the current ICC code of conduct and recommend suitable punishments for rogue behaviour. Borrowing soccer's red and yellow cards and handing out instant punishment would be considered, though Richardson was sceptical about the idea of using cards. He further said that currently, under the existing laws the, however, the umpire has the authority to mark a penalty for 5 runs on the team breaking the rules. Richardson said it could prove a major step towards cricket's Olympic inclusion at the 2028 Games in Los Angeles.

'Red' and 'yellow' cards in cricket could be considered: ICC chief

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

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