<p>A hilarious rap video has gone viral on Twitter since the ball-tampering scandal has surfaced and baffled the cricket fraternity.</p>

<p>The lyrics in the video focuses on the ball-tampering incident that happened the in the third Test match of a four-match series between Australia and South Africa.</p>

<p><em>Watch the video here:</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Full credit to Australians back in Australia. <a href="https://t.co/DIhUXxuQrs">pic.twitter.com/DIhUXxuQrs</a></p>
— Ben Karpinski (@followthebounce) <a href="https://twitter.com/followthebounce/status/978310671359205377?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>Australian fallen star skipper, Steve Smith admitted to altering the condition as batsman Cameron Bancroft was caught in the camera when he took out a yellow-colored sandpaper from his pocket and scrubbed on the ball to increase the roughness of one side of the ball.</p>

<p>Steve Smith has been trapped in a cyclone of controversies and was booed by the South African fans when he entered to play in the second innings. He scored only seven runs off twenty balls.</p>

<p>Smith along with former vice-captain, David Warner has been given one-year ban in the wake of ball-tampering controversy and&nbsp;Bancroft has been ruled out for 9 months.</p>

<p>After the Cricket Australia's report, BCCI also snubbed Smith and Warner from the upcoming edition of Indian&nbsp;Premier League.</p>


A hilarious rap video has gone viral on Twitter since the ball-tampering scandal has surfaced and baffled the cricket fraternity

A hilarious rap video has gone viral on Twitter since the ball-tampering scandal has surfaced and baffled the cricket fraternity. The lyrics in the video focuses on the ball-tampering incident that happened the in the third Test match of a four-match series between Australia and South Africa. Watch the video here: Full credit to Australians back in Australia. pic.twitter.com/DIhUXxuQrs — Ben Karpinski (@followthebounce) March 26, 2018 × Australian fallen star skipper, Steve Smith admitted to altering the condition as batsman Cameron Bancroft was caught in the camera when he took out a yellow-colored sandpaper from his pocket and scrubbed on the ball to increase the roughness of one side of the ball. Steve Smith has been trapped in a cyclone of controversies and was booed by the South African fans when he entered to play in the second innings. He scored only seven runs off twenty balls. Smith along with former vice-captain, David Warner has been given one-year ban in the wake of ball-tampering controversy and Bancroft has been ruled out for 9 months. After the Cricket Australia's report, BCCI also snubbed Smith and Warner from the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League.

Watch: Now, rappers take a dig at Steve Smith & Co

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/after-xi-kim-meeting-trump-says-north-korean-leader-will-do-what-is-right-for-his-people-and-for-humanity-126805">After Xi, Kim meeting, Trump says North Korean leader 'will do what is right for his people and for humanity'</a></p>

<p>As Kim Jong Un met China's President Xi in Beijing in a secret, President Trump in a tweet said the North Korean leader will do "what is right and move toward peace".</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbse-exam-paper-leak-pm-modi-asks-hrd-minister-to-take-strict-action-126790">CBSE exam paper leak: PM Modi asks HRD minister to take 'strict action'</a></p>

<p>The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will be reconducting the Economics exam for Class XII and Mathematics exam for Class X after reports of paper leak surfaced.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/king-of-good-times-vijay-mallya-to-get-married-to-girlfriend-pinky-lalwani-126809">'King of Good Times' Vijay Mallya to get married to girlfriend Pinky Lalwani</a></p>

<p>Vijay Mallya, popularly referred to as the ‘King of Good Times’ who was believed to be going through a rough patch owing to his loan fraud with Indian banks and money laundering issues, is after all not having such a bad time in the UK.&nbsp</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/israels-el-al-appeals-against-air-india-flights-over-saudi-arabia-126815">Israel's El Al appeals against Air India flights over Saudi</a></p>

<p>Israel's national airline El Al appealed to the Supreme Court on Wednesday to cancel the authorisation of direct Air India flights between New Delhi and Tel Aviv via Saudi airspace fearing financial damage to it and view it as aerial discrimination.&nbsp</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/now-bcci-snubs-smith-warner-over-ball-tampering-126786">Now, BCCI snubs Smith, Warner over ball-tampering</a></p>

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India has removed Steve Smith and David Warner from the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League and said that the franchises, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, will get the replacements.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-to-introduce-new-privacy-controls-in-wake-of-data-scandal-126804">Facebook to introduce new privacy controls in wake of data scandal</a></p>

<p>Facebook, embroiled in a huge data scandal which has wiped off over $100 billion in its market value, on Wednesday announced a series of privacy changes it was making to give users more control over their data.</p>


After Xi, Kim meeting, Trump says North Korean leader 'will do what is right for his people and for humanity' As Kim Jong Un met China's President Xi in Beijing in a secret, President Trump in a tweet said the North Korean leader will do "what is right and move toward peace". CBSE exam paper leak: PM Modi asks HRD minister to take 'strict action' The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will be reconducting the Economics exam for Class XII and Mathematics exam for Class X after reports of paper leak surfaced. 'King of Good Times' Vijay Mallya to get married to girlfriend Pinky Lalwani Vijay Mallya, popularly referred to as the ‘King of Good Times’ who was believed to be going through a rough patch owing to his loan fraud with Indian banks and money laundering issues, is after all not having such a bad time in the UK. Israel's El Al appeals against Air India flights over Saudi Israel's national airline El Al appealed to the Supreme Court on Wednesday to cancel the authorisation of direct Air India flights between New Delhi and Tel Aviv via Saudi airspace fearing financial damage to it and view it as aerial discrimination. Now, BCCI snubs Smith, Warner over ball-tampering The Board of Control for Cricket in India has removed Steve Smith and David Warner from the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League and said that the franchises, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, will get the replacements. Facebook to introduce new privacy controls in wake of data scandal Facebook, embroiled in a huge data scandal which has wiped off over $100 billion in its market value, on Wednesday announced a series of privacy changes it was making to give users more control over their data.

WION evening news brief, March 28, 2018

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


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

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

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

<p>The Board of Control for Cricket in India has removed Steve Smith and David Warner from the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League and said that the franchises, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, will get the replacements.</p>

<p>In the recent media interaction, IPL Commissioner Rajiv Shukla, said, "The franchises will get replacements for the players as they (David Warner and Steve Smith) will not be allowed to play this year." In an official statement, BCCI said it had decided to ban Smith and Warner with immediate effect from participation in IPL 2018.</p>

<p>"The BCCI hopes that the cricketers participating in the IPL hold the highest regard for the spirit of Cricket and code of conduct for players and match officials," the statement said.</p>

<p>"The concerned IPL franchises will be allowed replacement players," it said. Earlier, both the players David Warner and Steve Smith had stepped down from the captainship of their respective IPL teams, as both were retained by their franchises and were supposed to lead the team.</p>

<p>Also, One-year bans have been handed out to Steve Smith and David Warner in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal.</p>

<p>Cameron Bancroft, the reports added, will be handed a nine-month ban.</p>

<p>On Tuesday Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland apologised for the ball-tampering row which has engulfed the cricket world in the Australia-South Africa series.</p>


The franchises, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, will get the replacements: Rajiv Shukla

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has removed Steve Smith and David Warner from the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League and said that the franchises, Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad, will get the replacements. In the recent media interaction, IPL Commissioner Rajiv Shukla, said, "The franchises will get replacements for the players as they (David Warner and Steve Smith) will not be allowed to play this year." In an official statement, BCCI said it had decided to ban Smith and Warner with immediate effect from participation in IPL 2018. "The BCCI hopes that the cricketers participating in the IPL hold the highest regard for the spirit of Cricket and code of conduct for players and match officials," the statement said. "The concerned IPL franchises will be allowed replacement players," it said. Earlier, both the players David Warner and Steve Smith had stepped down from the captainship of their respective IPL teams, as both were retained by their franchises and were supposed to lead the team. Also, One-year bans have been handed out to Steve Smith and David Warner in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal. Cameron Bancroft, the reports added, will be handed a nine-month ban. On Tuesday Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland apologised for the ball-tampering row which has engulfed the cricket world in the Australia-South Africa series.

Now, BCCI snubs Smith, Warner over ball-tampering

<p>David Warner has stepped down as Sunrisers Hyderabad captain after the ball-tampering row which happened in the third test match of ongoing series between South Africa and Australia.</p>

<p>Warner was retained by the franchise at an amount of INR 12.5 Cr for the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League. Under Warner's captaincy, The Orange army has claimed the IPL trophy in 2016.</p>

<p>According to the statement released by the franchise, David Warner voluntarily quit the captaincy.</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">“In light of recent events, David Warner has stepped down as captain of SunRisers Hyderabad. The new captain of the Team will be announced shortly.” – K.Shanmugam, CEO, SunRisers Hyderabad</p>
— SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers/status/978878109876391936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2018</a></blockquote>

<p>The CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad, K.Shanmugam said, "In light of recent events, David Warner has stepped down as captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad. The new captain of the Team will be announced shortly." The franchise is yet to name a replacement captain but the possible prospects for the captainship are Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson.</p>

<p>A few days back, Steve Smith also had stepped down as captain of Rajasthan Royals for the upcoming 2018 IPL season after his confession of altering the ball in order to change the condition.</p>

<p>"We were waiting for Cricket Australia's report. We have already written to them and we are expecting their written reply. The moment it comes, we will be deciding about it," said IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla. "If they are going to punish him then we will also think on those lines," he further added.</p>

<p>"We want everything to be investigated. There are certain provisions in our player regulations, accordingly, we will decide. Our league is going to commence from April 7 so there is no hurry, Sukla further said that there is enough time for the edition to start and hence they want every angle of Smith's to be investigated before they take any decision.</p>

<p>Sukla further said that there is enough time for the edition to start and hence they want every angle of Smith's to be investigated before they take any decision. "We want everything to be investigated. There are certain provisions in our player regulations, accordingly, we will decide. Our league is going to commence from April 7 so there is no hurry."</p>


Warner was retained by the franchise at an amount of INR 12.5 Cr for the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League

David Warner has stepped down as Sunrisers Hyderabad captain after the ball-tampering row which happened in the third test match of ongoing series between South Africa and Australia. Warner was retained by the franchise at an amount of INR 12.5 Cr for the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League. Under Warner's captaincy, The Orange army has claimed the IPL trophy in 2016. According to the statement released by the franchise, David Warner voluntarily quit the captaincy. “In light of recent events, David Warner has stepped down as captain of SunRisers Hyderabad. The new captain of the Team will be announced shortly.” – K.Shanmugam, CEO, SunRisers Hyderabad — SunRisers Hyderabad (@SunRisers) March 28, 2018 The CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad, K.Shanmugam said, "In light of recent events, David Warner has stepped down as captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad. The new captain of the Team will be announced shortly." The franchise is yet to name a replacement captain but the possible prospects for the captainship are Shikhar Dhawan, Kane Williamson. A few days back, Steve Smith also had stepped down as captain of Rajasthan Royals for the upcoming 2018 IPL season after his confession of altering the ball in order to change the condition. "We were waiting for Cricket Australia's report. We have already written to them and we are expecting their written reply. The moment it comes, we will be deciding about it," said IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla. "If they are going to punish him then we will also think on those lines," he further added. "We want everything to be investigated. There are certain provisions in our player regulations, accordingly, we will decide. Our league is going to commence from April 7 so there is no hurry, Sukla further said that there is enough time for the edition to start and hence they want every angle of Smith's to be investigated before they take any decision. Sukla further said that there is enough time for the edition to start and hence they want every angle of Smith's to be investigated before they take any decision. "We want everything to be investigated. There are certain provisions in our player regulations, accordingly, we will decide. Our league is going to commence from April 7 so there is no hurry."

IPL 2018: David Warner steps down as Sunrisers Hyderabad captain after ball-tampering scandal

<p>It was bound to happen. The ‘Ugly Aussies’ started in the 60s through till the 80s, then began Steve Waugh’s ‘go for throat’ era & the rest followed- mental disintegration, verbal duel, you name it, the Aussies had mastered the ‘Art’.</p>

<p>It is unthinkable that the coach Darren Lehmann who is responsible for team strategy and is part of the leadership team has been found “not guilty” by Cricket Australia.</p>

<p>In fact, under Lehmann Australia has often tried to substitute talent with “sledging” and adopted other modes to dismantle the opposition as the Proteas and the English would point out. Lehmann who was a member of the World Cup winning team under Steve Waugh in 1999 knows the art of unsettling a team all too well, it is just that this time the Aussies didn’t know where to stop.</p>

<p>The Red line was crossed and the startling thing was the Aussies didn’t even realise it, till after the press conference, should Lehmann have let the situation come to this is the big question.</p>

<p>Clearly, Cricket Australia is doing the obvious- calling back the trio responsible for the tampering mess- Smith, Bancroft & Warner but they have clearly let Lehmann off the hook.</p>

<p>Don’t be surprised if the “Ugly Aussies” tear into another team, it is just a matter of time because nothing has changed in the Australian dressing room, just another replacement and a new captain.</p>

<p>It is just not Cricket.</p>

<p><iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oooudqkeaMI" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)</em></p>


Don’t be surprised if the “Ugly Aussies” tear into another team

It was bound to happen. The ‘Ugly Aussies’ started in the 60s through till the 80s, then began Steve Waugh’s ‘go for throat’ era & the rest followed- mental disintegration, verbal duel, you name it, the Aussies had mastered the ‘Art’. It is unthinkable that the coach Darren Lehmann who is responsible for team strategy and is part of the leadership team has been found “not guilty” by Cricket Australia. In fact, under Lehmann Australia has often tried to substitute talent with “sledging” and adopted other modes to dismantle the opposition as the Proteas and the English would point out. Lehmann who was a member of the World Cup winning team under Steve Waugh in 1999 knows the art of unsettling a team all too well, it is just that this time the Aussies didn’t know where to stop. The Red line was crossed and the startling thing was the Aussies didn’t even realise it, till after the press conference, should Lehmann have let the situation come to this is the big question. Clearly, Cricket Australia is doing the obvious- calling back the trio responsible for the tampering mess- Smith, Bancroft & Warner but they have clearly let Lehmann off the hook. Don’t be surprised if the “Ugly Aussies” tear into another team, it is just a matter of time because nothing has changed in the Australian dressing room, just another replacement and a new captain. It is just not Cricket. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the authors and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Opinion: Ball tampering row - Lehmann gets away, Cricket Australia fails again

<p>Cricket <a href="http://cmsuat.wionews.com/sports/australia-incredibly-stupid---ex-south-africa-skipper-ali-bacher-126656">Australia CEO James Sutherland </a>today apologised for the ball-tampering row which has engulfed the cricket world in the Australia-South Africa series.</p>

<p>Addressing&nbsp;the press conference on the ball-tampering row, Sutherland said offences go beyond technicalities.</p>

<p>"Only Steve Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner were aware of the ball-tampering plan," Cricket Australia's CEO said.</p>

<p>"All three players reported will leave South Africa on Wednesday and new replacements will come in," he added.</p>

<p>Sutherland said Cricket Australia will review the case and further sanctions will be announced in the next 24 hours.</p>

<p>Sutherland asserted that coach Darren Lehmann will continue as coach of the team. Sutherland said the Australian coach had no knowledge of the ball-tampering incident which occurred in the third Test at Cape Town on Saturday.</p>

<p><br />
<b><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iDVYl59fP3Y" width="560"></iframe></b></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><b>&nbsp;</b></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Sutherland said Cricket Australia will review the case and further sanctions will be announced in the next 24 hours

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

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

<p>The ongoing Australia vs South Africa Test series has seen enough in terms of controversies and scandals, from Warner-Quinton altercation to Smith-Rabada case.</p>

<p>But the recent incident has shaken up the cricket fraternity when the ugliest side of Australian cricket was seen in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday when Australian skipper, Steve Smith admitted to altering the condition of the ball.</p>

<p>Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft was caught in the camera when he took out a yellow-colored substance from his pocket and applied on the ball to increase the roughness of one side of the ball.</p>

<p>Steve Smith was fighting to save his job and reputation after the ball-tampering scandal where he played the chief plotter.</p>

<p>Now, Smith has been trapped in a cyclone of controversies and was booed by the South African fans when he entered to play in the second innings. He scored only seven runs off twenty balls.</p>

<p>Irrespective of immense seriousness this incident requires, Twitterati has come up with some innovative ways of displaying their take on the incident.&nbsp</p>

<p><em>Here are some hilarious tweets:</em></p>

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Ball Tampering Basics with Steve Smith.. <a href="https://t.co/WUIohYjG4P">pic.twitter.com/WUIohYjG4P</a></p>
— José Covaco (@HoeZaay) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoeZaay/status/978313472214577153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When a journalist asks Steve Smith about ball tampering. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SteveSmith?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SteveSmith</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAUS?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAUS</a> <a href="https://t.co/n6nALx5GAQ">pic.twitter.com/n6nALx5GAQ</a></p>
— BALA (@erbmjha) <a href="https://twitter.com/erbmjha/status/977879489639219200?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">When Steve Smith goes back to the hotel room to face Darren Lehman & Cameron Bancroft after saying "It's sad to know that the whole team was involved in the ball tampering scenario but I was not a part of it" in the press conference ?? <a href="https://t.co/cuqOYrp9q3">pic.twitter.com/cuqOYrp9q3</a></p>
— Ojas Korde (@Ojasism) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ojasism/status/977603556416028672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>&nbsp</p>


Funny Twitter reactions on Steve Smith's ball-tampering scandal

The ongoing Australia vs South Africa Test series has seen enough in terms of controversies and scandals, from Warner-Quinton altercation to Smith-Rabada case. But the recent incident has shaken up the cricket fraternity when the ugliest side of Australian cricket was seen in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday when Australian skipper, Steve Smith admitted to altering the condition of the ball. Australian batsman Cameron Bancroft was caught in the camera when he took out a yellow-colored substance from his pocket and applied on the ball to increase the roughness of one side of the ball. Steve Smith was fighting to save his job and reputation after the ball-tampering scandal where he played the chief plotter. Now, Smith has been trapped in a cyclone of controversies and was booed by the South African fans when he entered to play in the second innings. He scored only seven runs off twenty balls. Irrespective of immense seriousness this incident requires, Twitterati has come up with some innovative ways of displaying their take on the incident. Here are some hilarious tweets: Ball Tampering Basics with Steve Smith.. pic.twitter.com/WUIohYjG4P — José Covaco (@HoeZaay) March 26, 2018 × When a journalist asks Steve Smith about ball tampering. #SteveSmith #SAvAUS pic.twitter.com/n6nALx5GAQ — BALA (@erbmjha) March 25, 2018 × When Steve Smith goes back to the hotel room to face Darren Lehman & Cameron Bancroft after saying "It's sad to know that the whole team was involved in the ball tampering scenario but I was not a part of it" in the press conference ?? pic.twitter.com/cuqOYrp9q3 — Ojas Korde (@Ojasism) March 24, 2018 ×

<p>The ugliest side of Australian cricket was seen in the thirst Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday when Australian skipper admitted to&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-banned-for-one-test-fined-100-match-fee-icc-37030">altering the condition</a>&nbspof the ball.</p>

<p>Australian batsman&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-banned-for-one-test-fined-100-match-fee-icc-37030">Cameron Bancroft</a>&nbspwas caught in the camera when he took out a yellow-colored substance from his pocket and applied on the ball to increase the roughness of one side of the ball.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-banned-for-one-test-fined-100-match-fee-icc-37030">Steve Smith</a>&nbsphas been trapped in a cyclone of controversies and was booed by the South African fans when he entered to play in the second innings. He scored only seven runs off twenty balls.</p>

<p><em>Watch the video here:</em></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Aussies blatantly ball tampering? Let’s see what Steve Smith and the Boys have to say now <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneWarne?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShaneWarne</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/BumbleCricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BumbleCricket</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvsSA?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvsSA</a> <a href="https://t.co/aOsbW4Lh1K">pic.twitter.com/aOsbW4Lh1K</a></p>
— Shaylin Perumal (@AngryShaylin) <a href="https://twitter.com/AngryShaylin/status/977529362101735425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>For the deliberate intention of ball tampering, ICC has slapped Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft with a one-match ban and fined 75% of match fee.</p>

<p>In the wake of the ball-tampering controversy, Steve Smith had stepped down as the captain of the Australian cricket team also Vice-captain David Warner also agreed to step down from his position.</p>

<p>Steve Smith even&nbsp<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2018-ajinkya-rahane-to-lead-rajasthan-after-smith-steps-down-as-captain-over-ball-tampering-admission-37120">quit as the captain of Rajasthan Royals</a>&nbspand the position is taken over by Ajinkya Rahane. Though, it is still not clear whether Smith will play as a player for Royals or not.</p>

<p>Smith was a part of the Rajasthan Royals in 2014 and 2015 and was the only player retained by the franchise.</p>


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

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

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

<p>Ali Bacher, the last South Africa skipper to win a series against Australia in the republic, says disgraced captain Steve Smith and his ball-tampering team are "incredibly stupid".</p>

<p>Bacher led South Africa to a 4-0 whitewash over Bobby Simpson-skippered Australia in the 1969-1970 season.</p>

<p>"In this age of a thousand cameras, it was stupid to even think of doing it (ball tampering), and incredibly stupid to go through with it," he told the South African media.</p>

<p>TV cameras caught Cameron Bancroft trying to change the condition of the ball last Saturday in Cape Town using a piece of grit-encrusted sticky tape during a Test won by South Africa.</p>

<p>Smith later admitted he hatched the plot to cheat with the unnamed "team leadership" and is now facing disciplinary action, possibly later Tuesday.</p>

<p>Reports say Smith and vice-captain David Warner could be banned for 12 months and sent home in disgrace.</p>

<p>"You have to put the blame on the captain and I believe Cricket Australia will think long and hard about taking it further than the one-Test ban Smith has already got," said Bacher.</p>

<p>"I feel sorry for Cameron Bancroft because he would have been acting under instructions. If the leader of the team says you must do that, what option do you really have?</p>

<p>"One thing that they (Cricket Australia) have always done is act immediately on things like this.</p>

<p>"You look back at Shane Warne, who had a brilliant cricket brain but never got the captaincy because of his misdemeanours.</p>

<p>"I would be surprised if Cricket Australia did not take this further," he said ahead of a planned media conference in Johannesburg hosted by Australian cricket boss James Sutherland.</p>

<p>South Africa lead the series 2-1 going into the final Test from Friday at the Wanderers stadium in Johannesburg.</p>

<p>&nbsp</p>


"I would be surprised if Cricket Australia did not take this further," says Ali Bacher

Ali Bacher, the last South Africa skipper to win a series against Australia in the republic, says disgraced captain Steve Smith and his ball-tampering team are "incredibly stupid". Bacher led South Africa to a 4-0 whitewash over Bobby Simpson-skippered Australia in the 1969-1970 season. "In this age of a thousand cameras, it was stupid to even think of doing it (ball tampering), and incredibly stupid to go through with it," he told the South African media. TV cameras caught Cameron Bancroft trying to change the condition of the ball last Saturday in Cape Town using a piece of grit-encrusted sticky tape during a Test won by South Africa. Smith later admitted he hatched the plot to cheat with the unnamed "team leadership" and is now facing disciplinary action, possibly later Tuesday. Reports say Smith and vice-captain David Warner could be banned for 12 months and sent home in disgrace. "You have to put the blame on the captain and I believe Cricket Australia will think long and hard about taking it further than the one-Test ban Smith has already got," said Bacher. "I feel sorry for Cameron Bancroft because he would have been acting under instructions. If the leader of the team says you must do that, what option do you really have? "One thing that they (Cricket Australia) have always done is act immediately on things like this. "You look back at Shane Warne, who had a brilliant cricket brain but never got the captaincy because of his misdemeanours. "I would be surprised if Cricket Australia did not take this further," he said ahead of a planned media conference in Johannesburg hosted by Australian cricket boss James Sutherland. South Africa lead the series 2-1 going into the final Test from Friday at the Wanderers stadium in Johannesburg.

Australia 'incredibly stupid' - ex-South Africa skipper Ali Bacher

Former Australian skipper Steve Smith's participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season will be decided after Cricket Australia's report on the ball-tampering controversy during Australia's third Test against South Africa.
 
Yesterday, Smith had stepped down as captain of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals. Ajinkya Rahane has been announced his replacement for the XIth edition.  

"We were waiting for Cricket Australia's report. We have already written to them and we are expecting their written reply. The moment it comes, we will be deciding about it," said IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla. 

Shukla added the board will not hesitate to take strict action against Smith.

"If they are going to punish him then we will also think on those lines." 

Sukla further said that there is enough time for the edition to start and hence they want every angle of Smith's to be investigated before they take any decision. 

"We want everything to be investigated. There are certain provisions in our player regulations, accordingly, we will decide. Our league is going to commence from April 7 so there is no hurry,"

Smith has been banned for one Test and fined 100 per cent match fee by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after admitting that he orchestrated a plan to ball tamper.

Following the scandal, Smith and David Warner both stepped down as Australia captain and vice-captain respectively.

Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals will play their first match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 9, who are captained by Smith's compatriot Warner.

Yesterday, Smith had stepped down as captain of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals

Former Australian skipper Steve Smith's participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season will be decided after Cricket Australia's report on the ball-tampering controversy during Australia's third Test against South Africa. Yesterday, Smith had stepped down as captain of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals. Ajinkya Rahane has been announced his replacement for the XIth edition. "We were waiting for Cricket Australia's report. We have already written to them and we are expecting their written reply. The moment it comes, we will be deciding about it," said IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla. Shukla added the board will not hesitate to take strict action against Smith. "If they are going to punish him then we will also think on those lines." Sukla further said that there is enough time for the edition to start and hence they want every angle of Smith's to be investigated before they take any decision. "We want everything to be investigated. There are certain provisions in our player regulations, accordingly, we will decide. Our league is going to commence from April 7 so there is no hurry," Smith has been banned for one Test and fined 100 per cent match fee by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after admitting that he orchestrated a plan to ball tamper. Following the scandal, Smith and David Warner both stepped down as Australia captain and vice-captain respectively. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals will play their first match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 9, who are captained by Smith's compatriot Warner.

Smith's IPL future to be decided after Cricket Australia's report: Chairman Rajeev Shukla

<p>Former Australian skipper Steve Smith's participation in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season will be decided after Cricket Australia's report on the ball-tampering controversy during Australia's third Test against South Africa. Yesterday, Smith had stepped down as captain of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals. Ajinkya Rahane has been announced his replacement for the XIth edition. "We were waiting for Cricket Australia's report. We have already written to them and we are expecting their written reply. The moment it comes, we will be deciding about it," said IPL chairman Rajeev Shukla. Shukla added the board will not hesitate to take strict action against Smith. "If they are going to punish him then we will also think on those lines." Sukla further said that there is enough time for the edition to start and hence they want every angle of Smith's to be investigated before they take any decision. "We want everything to be investigated. There are certain provisions in our player regulations, accordingly, we will decide. Our league is going to commence from April 7 so there is no hurry," Smith has been banned for one Test and fined 100 per cent match fee by the International Cricket Council (ICC) after admitting that he orchestrated a plan to ball tamper. Following the scandal, Smith and David Warner both stepped down as Australia captain and vice-captain respectively. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals will play their first match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 9, who are captained by Smith's compatriot Warner.</p>


Yesterday, Smith had stepped down as captain of IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals.

<p>Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith on Monday criticised the punishment of one-match ban to former Australia skipper Steve Smith, describing the ICC’s punishment as too lenient.</p>

<p>“I think that they [ICC] had an opportunity to set a precedent here,” “I think it [Smith’s punishment] is too lenient," Graeme Smith said.&nbsp</p>

<p>“It’s something that he’s admitted and that he’s aware of and was a part of and that he planned to cheat. I felt the ICC had an opportunity and in my mind they haven’t dealt with it effectively.</p>

<p>Smith will miss the fourth and final Test against the Proteas after confessing that he was behind the ball-tampering scandal that has engulfed cricket.</p>

<p>Another player Cameron Bancroft, who received three demerit points and a 75 per cent fine of his match fee, was caught on camera rubbing the ball with yellow tape on day three of the third Test in Cape Town before Smith revealed the premeditated idea on Saturday.</p>

<p>“I know the ICC have stuck to the letter of their system but having captained before, the spirit of the game gets drummed down as a captain, and the ICC make a conscious effort before every series to make sure that as a leader you’re aware of that and it’s your responsibility."</p>

<p>Graeme stated that in many ways Cricket Australia have been firmer than the ICC.</p>

<p>Wicketkeeper Tim Paine was named captain on day four as the Australians were crushed by 322 runs on Sunday.</p>

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Smith will miss the fourth and final Test against the Proteas

Former South Africa captain Graeme Smith on Monday criticised the punishment of one-match ban to former Australia skipper Steve Smith, describing the ICC’s punishment as too lenient. “I think that they [ICC] had an opportunity to set a precedent here,” “I think it [Smith’s punishment] is too lenient," Graeme Smith said. “It’s something that he’s admitted and that he’s aware of and was a part of and that he planned to cheat. I felt the ICC had an opportunity and in my mind they haven’t dealt with it effectively. Smith will miss the fourth and final Test against the Proteas after confessing that he was behind the ball-tampering scandal that has engulfed cricket. Another player Cameron Bancroft, who received three demerit points and a 75 per cent fine of his match fee, was caught on camera rubbing the ball with yellow tape on day three of the third Test in Cape Town before Smith revealed the premeditated idea on Saturday. “I know the ICC have stuck to the letter of their system but having captained before, the spirit of the game gets drummed down as a captain, and the ICC make a conscious effort before every series to make sure that as a leader you’re aware of that and it’s your responsibility." Graeme stated that in many ways Cricket Australia have been firmer than the ICC. Wicketkeeper Tim Paine was named captain on day four as the Australians were crushed by 322 runs on Sunday. Related Ball-tampering row: Matt Renshaw added to Australia squad for... Funny Twitter reactions on Steve Smith's ball-tampering scandal 1st Test: New Zealand beat England by innings and 49 runs Wasim Akram trains Pak's internet bowling sensation Hasan Akhtar

Steve Smith's punishment by ICC too lenient: Graeme Smith on ball-tampering row

<p>Australia`s cricketers have heaped disgrace and humiliation on the country, the local press said Monday in blasting the "rotten" team culture under the current leadership.</p>

<p>The hard-hitting commentary follows captain Steve Smith admitting he cheated by hatching a plot to tamper with the ball during the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday.</p>

<p>Cricket is considered the national sport in Australia and the stunning developments have not gone down well.</p>

<p>"Smith`s Shame," screamed The Australian broadsheet on its front page, in remarks echoed by other media.</p>

<p>"The cheating has hurt Australian cricket from helmet to boot," it said in a commentary calling for Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland to stand down.</p>

<p>"In charge of the game for nearly two decades, Sutherland has done little to change the rotten culture of the sport at its most senior level."</p>

<p>It added that the scandal had dumped "disgrace and humiliation" on the nation.</p>

<p>In the same theme, the newspaper`s cricket writer Peter Lalor asked: "Where were the adults in the room?</p>

<p>"The answer to the question is, sadly, that these are the adults. Or the nearest thing to them that the game can summon."</p>

<p>Television footage showed Smith`s teammate Cameron Bancroft taking a yellow object out of his pocket while fielding in the post-lunch session on Saturday and appearing to rub it on the ball.</p>

<p>He was punished by the ICC with three demerit points and fined 75 percent of his match fee, while Smith was fined all his match fee and banned for a match.</p>

<p>Cricket Australia is conducting its own investigation into what happened, as calls mount for heads to roll.</p>

<p>Sydney Daily Telegraph sports writer Robert Craddock said Smith`s decision was not a moment of madness.</p>

<p>"It was the culmination of a grubby win-at-all-costs culture finally crossing from self-righteous rule-bending into a world of shameless, bald-faced cheating," he wrote.</p>

<p>"Steve Smith`s reputation -- and that of his team -- will never recover from this episode."</p>

<p>The Sydney Morning Herald was equally scathing, saying Australia`s cricket leadership had "lost the plot" and there will be a heavy price to pay.</p>

<p>"As this disreputable tour descended from the gutter into the sewer, the mythical line the Australians use as the yardstick for their behaviour has not only become blurred but disappeared altogether," it said.</p>

<p>"This has been a truly awful few weeks for Australian cricket whose reputation has hit a new low. Rehabilitation will be long and slow."</p>


Australia’s plan to alter the condition of the ball during the third Test against South Africa at Newlands dominated news headlines and captain Steve Smith and his teammates were widely condemned by the Australian media.

Australia`s cricketers have heaped disgrace and humiliation on the country, the local press said Monday in blasting the "rotten" team culture under the current leadership. The hard-hitting commentary follows captain Steve Smith admitting he cheated by hatching a plot to tamper with the ball during the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday. Cricket is considered the national sport in Australia and the stunning developments have not gone down well. "Smith`s Shame," screamed The Australian broadsheet on its front page, in remarks echoed by other media. "The cheating has hurt Australian cricket from helmet to boot," it said in a commentary calling for Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland to stand down. "In charge of the game for nearly two decades, Sutherland has done little to change the rotten culture of the sport at its most senior level." It added that the scandal had dumped "disgrace and humiliation" on the nation. In the same theme, the newspaper`s cricket writer Peter Lalor asked: "Where were the adults in the room? "The answer to the question is, sadly, that these are the adults. Or the nearest thing to them that the game can summon." Television footage showed Smith`s teammate Cameron Bancroft taking a yellow object out of his pocket while fielding in the post-lunch session on Saturday and appearing to rub it on the ball. He was punished by the ICC with three demerit points and fined 75 percent of his match fee, while Smith was fined all his match fee and banned for a match. Cricket Australia is conducting its own investigation into what happened, as calls mount for heads to roll. Sydney Daily Telegraph sports writer Robert Craddock said Smith`s decision was not a moment of madness. "It was the culmination of a grubby win-at-all-costs culture finally crossing from self-righteous rule-bending into a world of shameless, bald-faced cheating," he wrote. "Steve Smith`s reputation -- and that of his team -- will never recover from this episode." The Sydney Morning Herald was equally scathing, saying Australia`s cricket leadership had "lost the plot" and there will be a heavy price to pay. "As this disreputable tour descended from the gutter into the sewer, the mythical line the Australians use as the yardstick for their behaviour has not only become blurred but disappeared altogether," it said. "This has been a truly awful few weeks for Australian cricket whose reputation has hit a new low. Rehabilitation will be long and slow."

'Smith's Shame': Australia media slam 'rotten' cricket culture after ball-tampering row

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


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

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

Steve Smith, David Warner facing possible life bans

<p>Days before the XIth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) starts, Steve Smith stepped down as the captain for the upcoming league due to&nbspthe ball-tampering admission.&nbsp&nbsp</p>
<p>It is still&nbspnot clear whether Smith will play as a player for Royals or not.&nbsp&nbsp</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en-gb"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Rajasthan Royals appoint <a href="https://twitter.com/ajinkyarahane88?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ajinkyarahane88</a> as the captain for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPL2018?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPL2018</a><br><br>“The game is bigger than any individual and we hold this thought close to our heart.”- Manoj Badale , the co-owner of Rajasthan Royals<br><br>Read more: <a href="https://t.co/qBQbgUFb2u">https://t.co/qBQbgUFb2u</a> <a href="https://t.co/iy3sMVWlc1">pic.twitter.com/iy3sMVWlc1</a></p>&mdash Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/978207335674818560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">26 March 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
<p>Meanwhile, in-form Ajinkya Rahane has been handed over the responsibility to lead the side, Royals informed.</p>
<p>Rajasthan, who are coming back in the IPL after ending a two-year suspension, took the decision after consulting their team mentor Shane Warne, who blasted Smith on Saturday when the ball-tampering row erupted.</p>
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<p>"Very disappointed with the pictures I saw on our coverage here in Cape Town. If proven the alleged ball tampering is what we all think it is — then I hope Steve Smith and Darren Lehmann do the press conference to clean this mess up!" Warne had tweeted.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Rahane was one of Royals’ premier performer before they were banned for two years in the wake of the 2013 spot-fixing scandal.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, Rahane was one of Royals’ premier performer before they were banned for two years in the wake of the 2013 spot-fixing scandal.</p>
<p>On Sunday, during a press conference, Smith admitted to ball tampering during the ongoing third Test against South Africa in Cape Town.</p>
<p>Yesterday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) handed Smith a one-Test suspension and docked his full match fees as per its code of conduct.&nbsp<br>
&nbsp</p>

Rajasthan Royals are coming back in the IPL after ending a two-year suspension

Days before the XIth edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) starts, Steve Smith stepped down as the captain for the upcoming league due to&nbspthe ball-tampering admission. It is still&nbspnot clear whether Smith will play as a player for Royals or not. Rajasthan Royals appoint @ajinkyarahane88 as the captain for #IPL2018 “The game is bigger than any individual and we hold this thought close to our heart.”- Manoj Badale , the co-owner of Rajasthan Royals Read more: https://t.co/qBQbgUFb2u pic.twitter.com/iy3sMVWlc1 &mdash Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) 26 March 2018 Meanwhile, in-form Ajinkya Rahane has been handed over the responsibility to lead the side, Royals informed. Rajasthan, who are coming back in the IPL after ending a two-year suspension, took the decision after consulting their team mentor Shane Warne, who blasted Smith on Saturday when the ball-tampering row erupted. × "Very disappointed with the pictures I saw on our coverage here in Cape Town. If proven the alleged ball tampering is what we all think it is — then I hope Steve Smith and Darren Lehmann do the press conference to clean this mess up!" Warne had tweeted. Meanwhile, Rahane was one of Royals’ premier performer before they were banned for two years in the wake of the 2013 spot-fixing scandal. Meanwhile, Rahane was one of Royals’ premier performer before they were banned for two years in the wake of the 2013 spot-fixing scandal. On Sunday, during a press conference, Smith admitted to ball tampering during the ongoing third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. Yesterday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) handed Smith a one-Test suspension and docked his full match fees as per its code of conduct.

IPL 2018: Ajinkya Rahane to lead Rajasthan after Smith steps down as captain over ball-tampering admission

<p>Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh is all geared up to enthral the audience at the opening ceremony of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 on April 7.</p>

<p>The 'Bajirao Mastani' star, who has always set the stage on fire with his insane energy, will be paid a whopping Rs 5 crore for 15-minute performance in IPL’s eleventh edition.</p>

<p>This means Ranveer will be taking over Rs 33 lakh per minute for his performance at the ceremony.</p>

<p>“He will be shaking a leg for about 15 minutes, but the organising team was always clear that they wanted Ranveer as a performer and that’s why he has been offered such a huge amount,” reports said.</p>

<p>“His appeal cuts across cities, age-groups and has an equally big fan following among men and women. That’s why the organisers felt that he is the perfect fit for the performance at this year’s IPL opening ceremony. The organisers are extremely happy that Ranveer has given his nod for the event, the reports added.</p>

<p>On the professional front, Ranveer will be seen in Zoya Akhtar's musical drama 'Gully Boy'.&nbsp</p>

<p>The actor will be seen opposite Alia Bhatt for the first time in a film. However, the two have collaborated for several Television commercials.&nbsp</p>

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The actor will be paid a total of Rs 5 crore for his act

Bollywood actor Ranveer Singh is all geared up to enthral the audience at the opening ceremony of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 on April 7. The 'Bajirao Mastani' star, who has always set the stage on fire with his insane energy, will be paid a whopping Rs 5 crore for 15-minute performance in IPL’s eleventh edition. This means Ranveer will be taking over Rs 33 lakh per minute for his performance at the ceremony. “He will be shaking a leg for about 15 minutes, but the organising team was always clear that they wanted Ranveer as a performer and that’s why he has been offered such a huge amount,” reports said. “His appeal cuts across cities, age-groups and has an equally big fan following among men and women. That’s why the organisers felt that he is the perfect fit for the performance at this year’s IPL opening ceremony. The organisers are extremely happy that Ranveer has given his nod for the event, the reports added. On the professional front, Ranveer will be seen in Zoya Akhtar's musical drama 'Gully Boy'. The actor will be seen opposite Alia Bhatt for the first time in a film. However, the two have collaborated for several Television commercials. Related Ball-tampering row: Matt Renshaw added to Australia squad for... Funny Twitter reactions on Steve Smith's ball-tampering scandal 'I don't want anything bad for Shami,' says wife Hasin Jahan 1st Test: New Zealand beat England by innings and 49 runs

IPL 2018: Ranveer Singh to get over Rs 33 lakh per minute for 15-minute performance

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


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

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

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

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


Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull also termed the incident a shocking disappointment

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

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

<p>India spinner Harbhajan Singh today slammed the ICC for letting off Australian opener Cameron Bancroft with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/steve-smith-banned-for-one-test-fined-100-match-fee-icc-37030">only a fine of 75 </a>per cent of his match fee and not a ban, despite his role in the ball tampering scandal in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town.</p>

<p>Harbhajan Singh drew attention to the 2001 South Africa Test where he along with Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly, Shiv Sunder Das and Deep Dasgupta,were banned for at least one Test by match referee Mike Denness for various offences.</p>

<p>He also referred to the 2008 Sydney Test against Australia, infamously described as Monkey gate, where he was banned for three Tests for an alleged racial slur against Andrew Symonds.</p>

<p>Harbhajan Singh wrote on Twitter:</p>

<p>&quot;wow @ICC wow. Great treatment nd FairPlay. No ban for Bancroft with all the evidences whereas 6 of us were banned for excessive appealing in South Africa 2001 without any evidence and Remember Sydney 2008? Not found guilty and banned for 3 matches.Different people different rules,&quot; he tweeted.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">wow <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ICC</a> wow. Great treatment nd FairPlay. No ban for Bancroft with all the evidences whereas 6 of us were banned for excessive appealing in South Africa 2001 without any evidence and Remember Sydney 2008? Not found guilty and banned for 3 matches.different people different rules</p>
&mdash; Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://twitter.com/harbhajan_singh/status/977911377447677953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>Former England captain Michael Vaughan was also critical of the ICC&#39;s decision.</p>

<p>&quot;1 Match Ban &amp; 100 % March fee Fine for Smith #ffs ... 75% match fee fine for Bancroft and some bloody De merit points for Bancroft ... Pathetic penalties for CHEATING ... Surely this moment was the time to set a precedent ... !!?? All the team should be penalised,&quot; he wrote in his handle.</p>

<p>Australian captain Smith was today handed a one-match suspension and fined 100 percent of his match fee after he owned up to a ball-tampering conspiracy in South Africa.</p>

<p>Bancroft was fined 75 per cent of his match fee and handed three demerit points for breaching Level 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third day&#39;s play.</p>

<p>The incident that led to the charges being laid took place during South Africa&#39;s innings yesterday afternoon when Bancroft was seen on television holding a foreign object while rubbing the ball, before hiding the yellow object in his pocket, and then inside his trousers.<br />
<br />
(<em>With inputs from PTI</em>)</p>


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

India spinner Harbhajan Singh today slammed the ICC for letting off Australian opener Cameron Bancroft with only a fine of 75 per cent of his match fee and not a ban, despite his role in the ball tampering scandal in the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town. Harbhajan Singh drew attention to the 2001 South Africa Test where he along with Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Sourav Ganguly, Shiv Sunder Das and Deep Dasgupta,were banned for at least one Test by match referee Mike Denness for various offences. He also referred to the 2008 Sydney Test against Australia, infamously described as Monkey gate, where he was banned for three Tests for an alleged racial slur against Andrew Symonds. Harbhajan Singh wrote on Twitter: "wow @ICC wow. Great treatment nd FairPlay. No ban for Bancroft with all the evidences whereas 6 of us were banned for excessive appealing in South Africa 2001 without any evidence and Remember Sydney 2008? Not found guilty and banned for 3 matches.Different people different rules," he tweeted. wow @ICC wow. Great treatment nd FairPlay. No ban for Bancroft with all the evidences whereas 6 of us were banned for excessive appealing in South Africa 2001 without any evidence and Remember Sydney 2008? Not found guilty and banned for 3 matches.different people different rules — Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) March 25, 2018 × Former England captain Michael Vaughan was also critical of the ICC's decision. "1 Match Ban & 100 % March fee Fine for Smith #ffs ... 75% match fee fine for Bancroft and some bloody De merit points for Bancroft ... Pathetic penalties for CHEATING ... Surely this moment was the time to set a precedent ... !!?? All the team should be penalised," he wrote in his handle. Australian captain Smith was today handed a one-match suspension and fined 100 percent of his match fee after he owned up to a ball-tampering conspiracy in South Africa. Bancroft was fined 75 per cent of his match fee and handed three demerit points for breaching Level 2 of the ICC Code of Conduct during the third day's play. The incident that led to the charges being laid took place during South Africa's innings yesterday afternoon when Bancroft was seen on television holding a foreign object while rubbing the ball, before hiding the yellow object in his pocket, and then inside his trousers. (With inputs from PTI)

Harbhajan Singh slams ICC after decision on Smith, Bancroft

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


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

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

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

<p>South Africa routed embattled Australia by 322 runs to win the third Test on a black day for the sport on Sunday which saw Australian skipper Steve Smith banned for ball-tampering.</p>

<p>Set 430 to win, Australia were skittled out for just 107 late on the fourth day at Newlands.</p>

<p>Smith stood down as captain for the remainder of the match earlier Sunday after admitting being the instigator of the ball-tampering plot which rocked cricket.</p>

<p>He was then handed a one-match ban by the ICC for his role in the scandal.</p>

<p>Brief scores:</p>

<p>South Africa 311 and 373 (A. Markram 84, A. de Villiers 63, Q. de Kock 65, V. Philander 52 not out; J. Hazlewood 3-69, P. Cummins 3-67, N. Lyon 3-102) v Australia 255 and 107 (D. Warner 32; M. Morkel 5-23).</p>

<p>Result: South Africa won by 322 runs</p>

<p>Series: South Africa lead the four-match series 2-1</p>

<p>Toss: South Africa</p>


South Africa routed embattled Australia by 322 runs to win the third Test on a black day for the sport on Sunday which saw Australian skipper Steve Smith banned for ball-tampering

South Africa routed embattled Australia by 322 runs to win the third Test on a black day for the sport on Sunday which saw Australian skipper Steve Smith banned for ball-tampering. Set 430 to win, Australia were skittled out for just 107 late on the fourth day at Newlands. Smith stood down as captain for the remainder of the match earlier Sunday after admitting being the instigator of the ball-tampering plot which rocked cricket. He was then handed a one-match ban by the ICC for his role in the scandal. Brief scores: South Africa 311 and 373 (A. Markram 84, A. de Villiers 63, Q. de Kock 65, V. Philander 52 not out; J. Hazlewood 3-69, P. Cummins 3-67, N. Lyon 3-102) v Australia 255 and 107 (D. Warner 32; M. Morkel 5-23). Result: South Africa won by 322 runs Series: South Africa lead the four-match series 2-1 Toss: South Africa

South Africa rout embattled Australia by 322 runs in third Test

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


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

WION Morning News Brief, March 25, 2018

<p>Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Rajeev Shukla on Sunday said&nbsp;the fate of Steve Smith and David Warner for the upcoming edition will be decided only after International Cricket Council&#39;s (ICC) decision.</p>

<p>Shukla informed that Rajasthan Royals will wait and see what sanctions the ICC imposes on Steve Smith before taking a call on his future as the franchise&#39;s captain.</p>

<p>&quot;This is a matter of serious concern for all of us. We are waiting for decision of ICC&amp;Cricket Australia before taking any step,&quot; Shukla said.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is a matter of serious concern for all of us. We are waiting for decision of ICC&amp;Cricket Australia before taking any step: IPL chairman on Steve Smith &amp; David Warner stepping down as Captain&amp;Vice-Captain of Australia respectively for remainder of Test match with South Africa <a href="https://t.co/ArCrdS6hwu">pic.twitter.com/ArCrdS6hwu</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/977881652667052032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>A ball-tampering scandal erupted on Sunday with Smith confessing to altering the condition of the ball during the day 3 of the third Test against Australia in Cape Town.</p>

<p>He admission prompted cricket pundits, legends and Australia&#39;s prime minister to react.</p>

<p>Warner is the captain of the 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL.</p>

<p>Speaking on the matter, Rajasthan Royals Executive Chairman Ranjit Barthakur said, &quot;We have been made aware of the controversy of ball tampering in the ongoing Australia - South Africa series and await further instructions from BCCI, before we make any announcement.&quot;&quot;</p>

<p>&quot;We at Rajasthan Royals will not tolerate any actions that are unfair by definition and bring disrepute to the game of cricket. Our Zero tolerance policy applies to everyone in our team. Please bear with us,&quot; Ranjit added.</p>

<p>Wicket-keeper Tim Paine has been handed over the responsibility to lead Australia for the remaining two days of the Test.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Shukla said RR will wait and see what sanctions the ICC imposes on players

Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Rajeev Shukla on Sunday said the fate of Steve Smith and David Warner for the upcoming edition will be decided only after International Cricket Council's (ICC) decision. Shukla informed that Rajasthan Royals will wait and see what sanctions the ICC imposes on Steve Smith before taking a call on his future as the franchise's captain. "This is a matter of serious concern for all of us. We are waiting for decision of ICC&Cricket Australia before taking any step," Shukla said. This is a matter of serious concern for all of us. We are waiting for decision of ICC&Cricket Australia before taking any step: IPL chairman on Steve Smith & David Warner stepping down as Captain&Vice-Captain of Australia respectively for remainder of Test match with South Africa pic.twitter.com/ArCrdS6hwu — ANI (@ANI) March 25, 2018 × A ball-tampering scandal erupted on Sunday with Smith confessing to altering the condition of the ball during the day 3 of the third Test against Australia in Cape Town. He admission prompted cricket pundits, legends and Australia's prime minister to react. Warner is the captain of the 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL. Speaking on the matter, Rajasthan Royals Executive Chairman Ranjit Barthakur said, "We have been made aware of the controversy of ball tampering in the ongoing Australia - South Africa series and await further instructions from BCCI, before we make any announcement."" "We at Rajasthan Royals will not tolerate any actions that are unfair by definition and bring disrepute to the game of cricket. Our Zero tolerance policy applies to everyone in our team. Please bear with us," Ranjit added. Wicket-keeper Tim Paine has been handed over the responsibility to lead Australia for the remaining two days of the Test.

IPL 2018: Steve, Warner fate to be decided only after ICC's decision, says Chairman Rajiv Shukla

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/after-ball-tampering-admission-smith-warner-step-down-as-captain-vice-captain-of-australian-cricket-team-37010">After ball-tampering admission, Smith, Warner step down as captain, vice-captain of Australian cricket team</a></p>

<p>Steve Smith has stepped down as the captain of the Australian cricket team following the ball-tampering saga that took place during the third day of the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjps-win-in-up-rajya-sabha-polls-has-bolstered-sp-bsp-unity-akhilesh-yadav-37024">BJP&#39;s win in UP Rajya Sabha polls has bolstered SP-BSP unity: Akhilesh Yadav</a></p>

<p>The BJP may have wrested an extra seat in the recent Rajya Sabha polls but the victory will backfire on the saffron party as its &quot;anti-Dalit face stood exposed&quot; while the SP-BSP unity got strengthened, former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav claimed today.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/up-10-persons-arrested-for-alleged-links-to-let-terror-funding-37016">UP: 10 persons arrested for alleged links to LeT, terror-funding</a></p>

<p>The Uttar Pradesh Police&#39;s Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Sunday arrested 10 persons for alleged links to the terrroist outfit the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and allegedly involved in terror-funding activities at the behest of Pakistan.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/west-bengal-ram-navami-pandals-vandalised-bjp-accuses-tmc-37020">West Bengal: Ram Navami pandals vandalised, BJP accuses TMC</a></p>

<p>A Ram Navami pandal was vandalised on Saturday evening by unidentified miscreants in Bardhman district of West Bengal.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-problem-getting-naked-before-the-white-man-but-there-is-revolution-when-govt-asks-for-address-minister-37008">No problem getting naked before white man but revolution when </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-problem-getting-naked-before-the-white-man-but-there-is-revolution-when-govt-asks-for-address-minister-37008">government</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-problem-getting-naked-before-the-white-man-but-there-is-revolution-when-govt-asks-for-address-minister-37008"> asks for name, address: Union Minister&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Union Minister of State for Tourism and IT K J Alphons on Saturday said that Indians absolutely have no problem giving fingerprints and getting body naked before the white man at all.</p>


After ball-tampering admission, Smith, Warner step down as captain, vice-captain of Australian cricket team Steve Smith has stepped down as the captain of the Australian cricket team following the ball-tampering saga that took place during the third day of the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town on Saturday. BJP's win in UP Rajya Sabha polls has bolstered SP-BSP unity: Akhilesh Yadav The BJP may have wrested an extra seat in the recent Rajya Sabha polls but the victory will backfire on the saffron party as its "anti-Dalit face stood exposed" while the SP-BSP unity got strengthened, former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Akhilesh Yadav claimed today. UP: 10 persons arrested for alleged links to LeT, terror-funding The Uttar Pradesh Police's Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Sunday arrested 10 persons for alleged links to the terrroist outfit the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and allegedly involved in terror-funding activities at the behest of Pakistan. West Bengal: Ram Navami pandals vandalised, BJP accuses TMC A Ram Navami pandal was vandalised on Saturday evening by unidentified miscreants in Bardhman district of West Bengal. No problem getting naked before white man but revolution when government asks for name, address: Union Minister Union Minister of State for Tourism and IT K J Alphons on Saturday said that Indians absolutely have no problem giving fingerprints and getting body naked before the white man at all.

WION evening news brief, March 25, 2018

<p>Australia&#39;s Cameron Bancroft and captain Steve Smith admitted to ball-tampering during the third Test against South Africa on Saturday, sending shockwaves through cricket.</p>

<p>Bancroft was caught on television cameras appearing to rub a yellow object on the ball, and later said: &quot;I was in the wrong place at the wrong time. I want to be here (in the press conference) because I want to be accountable for my actions.&quot;</p>

<p>Smith added: &quot;The leadership group knew about it.&quot;</p>

<p>Television footage appeared to show Bancroft, 25, take on object out of his pocket while fielding in the post-lunch session on the third day of the Test at Newlands.</p>

<p>He was spoken to by umpires Nigel Llong and Richard Illingworth during the 43rd over of South Africa&#39;s second innings after appearing to have the object in his hand after fielding the ball at cover.</p>

<p>While the umpires were conferring, Bancroft then appeared to place a small yellow object in his underpants.</p>

<p>When the umpires went across to talk to him he reached into a pocket and showed them what seemed to be a different object &ndash;- what looked like a soft pouch for sunglasses.</p>

<p>The umpires took no action and did not change the ball.</p>

<p>There were boos from a capacity crowd at Newlands when the incident was shown on the big screen at the ground.</p>

<p>Both Bancroft and Smith, who took over the Australian captaincy in 2015, appeared before the media after the match and admitted that they had attempted to change the condition of the ball.</p>

<p>&quot;We had a discussion during the break. On myself I saw an opportunity to use some yellow tape and the granules from the rough patches of the wicket to change the condition of the ball,&quot; said opening batsman Bancroft who is playing in his eighth Test.</p>

<p>&quot;It didn&#39;t work, the umpires didn&#39;t change the ball. We have this yellow tape in our kit. The actual sticky stuff itself is very sticky so I felt it could be used to collect some stuff from the side of the pitch.&quot;</p>

<p>Smith will now face calls for his resignation after admitting that Bancroft did not act alone.</p>

<p>&quot;The leadership group knew about it. We spoke about it at lunch. I&#39;m not proud of what happened. It&#39;s not in the spirit of the game,&quot; said the skipper.</p>


Australia's Cameron Bancroft and captain Steve Smith admitted to ball-tampering during the third Test against South Africa on Saturday, sending shockwaves through cricket

Australia's Cameron Bancroft and captain Steve Smith admitted to ball-tampering during the third Test against South Africa on Saturday, sending shockwaves through cricket. Bancroft was caught on television cameras appearing to rub a yellow object on the ball, and later said: "I was in the wrong place at the wrong time. I want to be here (in the press conference) because I want to be accountable for my actions." Smith added: "The leadership group knew about it." Television footage appeared to show Bancroft, 25, take on object out of his pocket while fielding in the post-lunch session on the third day of the Test at Newlands. He was spoken to by umpires Nigel Llong and Richard Illingworth during the 43rd over of South Africa's second innings after appearing to have the object in his hand after fielding the ball at cover. While the umpires were conferring, Bancroft then appeared to place a small yellow object in his underpants. When the umpires went across to talk to him he reached into a pocket and showed them what seemed to be a different object –- what looked like a soft pouch for sunglasses. The umpires took no action and did not change the ball. There were boos from a capacity crowd at Newlands when the incident was shown on the big screen at the ground. Both Bancroft and Smith, who took over the Australian captaincy in 2015, appeared before the media after the match and admitted that they had attempted to change the condition of the ball. "We had a discussion during the break. On myself I saw an opportunity to use some yellow tape and the granules from the rough patches of the wicket to change the condition of the ball," said opening batsman Bancroft who is playing in his eighth Test. "It didn't work, the umpires didn't change the ball. We have this yellow tape in our kit. The actual sticky stuff itself is very sticky so I felt it could be used to collect some stuff from the side of the pitch." Smith will now face calls for his resignation after admitting that Bancroft did not act alone. "The leadership group knew about it. We spoke about it at lunch. I'm not proud of what happened. It's not in the spirit of the game," said the skipper.

Bancroft, Smith admit ball-tampering against South Africa

<p>Australian captain Steve Smith has criticised the decision to overturn a ban on South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada for making physical contact with him.</p>

<p>Smith said ahead of Wednesday&#39;s pre-Test press conference that a &quot;line in the sand&quot; had been drawn regarding physical contact and said he was surprised he had not been asked his opinion during the appeal hearing.</p>

<p>Having been banned for the remaining two Tests in the series for brushing against Smith&#39;s shoulder after taking his wicket in the second Test, Rabada was cleared to play in the third Test starting Thursday after a successful appeal.</p>

<p>Australia spin bowler Nathan Lyon had said the team had &quot;no dramas&quot; with the decision, but Smith has told cricket.com.au website: &quot;I certainly think he (Rabada) bumped me a little bit harder than it actually looked on the footage.&quot;</p>

<p>Although Smith claimed &quot;it didn&rsquo;t bother me too much,&quot; he went on to say, &quot;they&rsquo;ve obviously decided what&rsquo;s deliberate contact and what&rsquo;s not and apparently it wasn&rsquo;t.</p>

<p>&quot;The ICC have set the standard, haven&#39;t they? There was clearly contact out in the middle.</p>

<p>&quot;I certainly won&#39;t be telling my bowlers to go out there and after you take a wicket go and get in their space. I don&#39;t think that is on and part of the game. But the standard has been set.&quot;</p>

<p>Rabada was initially given three demerit points for the incident in Port Elizabeth by match referee Jeff Crowe, triggering an automatic two-Test ban.</p>

<p>But judicial commissioner Michael Heron said he was not completely satisfied that the contact was deliberate and reduced the charge to acting against the spirit of the game, imposing a one-point penalty, which took Rabada one point below the threshold for the ban.</p>

<p>He will, therefore, line up for South Africa as they seek the edge in a series tied at one match apiece.</p>

<p>Smith said it was &quot;interesting&quot; he had not been asked for his version of events and said Crowe had reason to be annoyed about his judgement being questioned.</p>

<p>&quot;The way he handled both sides throughout the two Test matches, I thought he did a terrific job. I&#39;d be feeling a bit annoyed if I was him, to be perfectly honest.&quot;</p>

<p>Smith said he and senior Australia players Lyon and David Warner had spoken to incoming match referee Andy Pycroft, who will handle the remaining two Tests of what has been an often bad-tempered series.</p>

<p>He said the referee would also speak to South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis &quot;just to ensure that the series is continued to play in pretty good spirit.&quot;</p>


Australian skipper Steve Smith said that he was surprised because he had not been asked his opinion during the appeal hearing

Australian captain Steve Smith has criticised the decision to overturn a ban on South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada for making physical contact with him. Smith said ahead of Wednesday's pre-Test press conference that a "line in the sand" had been drawn regarding physical contact and said he was surprised he had not been asked his opinion during the appeal hearing. Having been banned for the remaining two Tests in the series for brushing against Smith's shoulder after taking his wicket in the second Test, Rabada was cleared to play in the third Test starting Thursday after a successful appeal. Australia spin bowler Nathan Lyon had said the team had "no dramas" with the decision, but Smith has told cricket.com.au website: "I certainly think he (Rabada) bumped me a little bit harder than it actually looked on the footage." Although Smith claimed "it didn’t bother me too much," he went on to say, "they’ve obviously decided what’s deliberate contact and what’s not and apparently it wasn’t. "The ICC have set the standard, haven't they? There was clearly contact out in the middle. "I certainly won't be telling my bowlers to go out there and after you take a wicket go and get in their space. I don't think that is on and part of the game. But the standard has been set." Rabada was initially given three demerit points for the incident in Port Elizabeth by match referee Jeff Crowe, triggering an automatic two-Test ban. But judicial commissioner Michael Heron said he was not completely satisfied that the contact was deliberate and reduced the charge to acting against the spirit of the game, imposing a one-point penalty, which took Rabada one point below the threshold for the ban. He will, therefore, line up for South Africa as they seek the edge in a series tied at one match apiece. Smith said it was "interesting" he had not been asked for his version of events and said Crowe had reason to be annoyed about his judgement being questioned. "The way he handled both sides throughout the two Test matches, I thought he did a terrific job. I'd be feeling a bit annoyed if I was him, to be perfectly honest." Smith said he and senior Australia players Lyon and David Warner had spoken to incoming match referee Andy Pycroft, who will handle the remaining two Tests of what has been an often bad-tempered series. He said the referee would also speak to South Africa captain Faf Du Plessis "just to ensure that the series is continued to play in pretty good spirit."

Steve Smith criticises ICC on Rabada ruling

<p>Leaving his swanky business class flight seats and chauffeured cars, this cricket player preferred to take a train back to the small town he plays his game from.</p>

<p>At one end he has a multi-billion-dollar business empire but he chose to have a sun-bake cricket field, term it his love or passion for the sport.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
He is Aryaman Vikram Birla, the son of the chairman of Aditya Birla Group, Kumar Mangalam Birla.</p>

<p>Barely eighteen years old, Aryaman has already made it to the First Class level by being snapped up by the Rajasthan Royals for the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League (IPL).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Royal player was bought for Rs 30 lakh. The amount may be peanuts for his father but keeps a lot of value as it&#39;s his first big pay cheque as a professional cricketer.</p>

<p>The Birla scion is an all-rounder. He is a left-handed batsman and a left-arm spinner. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The budding player caught people&#39;s attention after he scored a blistering 153 runs in a match for Madhya Pradesh during the Under-23 Col CK Nayadu Trophy, last year.</p>

<p>He was also once India&#39;s highest run-scorer in the Polly Umrigar Trophy.</p>

<p>The boy from uptown Mumbai chose to pick up his kit bag and prove at the nets</p>

<p>In the recently held IPL auctions, Aryaman went unsold in the first round but was finally picked up by the Rajasthan in the second and final round.</p>

<p>The newly found talent will get a chance to play under Australian captain and arguably the world&#39;s best batsman Steve Smith.</p>

<p>The dressing room which will also include England all-rounder Ben Stokes and India batsman Ajinkya Rahane.</p>

<p>Purchased:<br />
Ben Stokes (12.5 cr), Ajinkya Rahane (4 cr), Stuart Binny (50 L), Sanju Samson (8 cr), Jos Buttler (4.4 cr), Rahul Tripathi (3.4 cr), D&#39;Arcy Short (4 cr), Jofra Archer (7.2 cr), K Gowtham (6.2 cr), Dhawal Kulkarni (75 L), Jaydev Unadkat (11.5 cr), Ankit Sharma (20 L), Anureet Singh (30 L), Zahir Khan Pakteen (60 L), Shreyas Gopal (20 L), MS Midhun (20 L), Prashant Chopra (20 L), Ben Laughlin (50 L), Mahipal Lomror (20 L), Aryaman Birla (30 L), Jatin Saxena (20 L), Dushmantha Chameera (50 L)<br />
&nbsp;</p>


He was snapped up by Rajasthan Royals for Rs 30 lakh

Leaving his swanky business class flight seats and chauffeured cars, this cricket player preferred to take a train back to the small town he plays his game from. At one end he has a multi-billion-dollar business empire but he chose to have a sun-bake cricket field, term it his love or passion for the sport. He is Aryaman Vikram Birla, the son of the chairman of Aditya Birla Group, Kumar Mangalam Birla. Barely eighteen years old, Aryaman has already made it to the First Class level by being snapped up by the Rajasthan Royals for the upcoming edition of Indian Premier League (IPL). The Royal player was bought for Rs 30 lakh. The amount may be peanuts for his father but keeps a lot of value as it's his first big pay cheque as a professional cricketer. The Birla scion is an all-rounder. He is a left-handed batsman and a left-arm spinner. The budding player caught people's attention after he scored a blistering 153 runs in a match for Madhya Pradesh during the Under-23 Col CK Nayadu Trophy, last year. He was also once India's highest run-scorer in the Polly Umrigar Trophy. The boy from uptown Mumbai chose to pick up his kit bag and prove at the nets In the recently held IPL auctions, Aryaman went unsold in the first round but was finally picked up by the Rajasthan in the second and final round. The newly found talent will get a chance to play under Australian captain and arguably the world's best batsman Steve Smith. The dressing room which will also include England all-rounder Ben Stokes and India batsman Ajinkya Rahane. Purchased: Ben Stokes (12.5 cr), Ajinkya Rahane (4 cr), Stuart Binny (50 L), Sanju Samson (8 cr), Jos Buttler (4.4 cr), Rahul Tripathi (3.4 cr), D'Arcy Short (4 cr), Jofra Archer (7.2 cr), K Gowtham (6.2 cr), Dhawal Kulkarni (75 L), Jaydev Unadkat (11.5 cr), Ankit Sharma (20 L), Anureet Singh (30 L), Zahir Khan Pakteen (60 L), Shreyas Gopal (20 L), MS Midhun (20 L), Prashant Chopra (20 L), Ben Laughlin (50 L), Mahipal Lomror (20 L), Aryaman Birla (30 L), Jatin Saxena (20 L), Dushmantha Chameera (50 L)

IPL 2018: Meet Aryaman Birla, the boy who chose cricket over Aditya Birla empire

<p>New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron has declared Kagiso Rabada as not guilty of level two offence, though, was imposed with&nbsp;a sanction of a fine of 25% of his match fee and will receive one demerit point.</p>

<p>Kagiso Rabada had faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe in the second match due to the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">BREAKING: Rabada cleared to play next <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAvAUS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAvAUS</a> Test!<br />
<br />
However, he still gets a fine and one demerit point.<br />
<br />
➡️ <a href="https://t.co/Doji6J7CFl">https://t.co/Doji6J7CFl</a> <a href="https://t.co/CLUrqTmcmo">pic.twitter.com/CLUrqTmcmo</a></p>
&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/976001995940114432?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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<p>ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said: &quot;The ICC wholly accepts today&rsquo;s decision and I would like to thank Mr. Heron for overseeing the hearing in a short time frame before the next Test starts in South Africa.</p>

<p>Rabada contested the ban saying that the incident was accidental and had appealed against the ban. The appeal was heard by New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron by teleconference on Monday in which he was found &quot;not guilty&quot; but he still he still gets a fine and one demerit point.</p>

<p>The South African management was confident and had already put Rabada&#39;s name in the 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday at St George&#39;s Park, Port Elizabeth.</p>

<p><strong>South African squad:</strong></p>

<p>Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander and <strong>Kagiso Rabada.</strong></p>


South African was confident and had already put Rabada's name in the 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday

New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron has declared Kagiso Rabada as not guilty of level two offence, though, was imposed with a sanction of a fine of 25% of his match fee and will receive one demerit point. Kagiso Rabada had faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe in the second match due to the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off. BREAKING: Rabada cleared to play next #SAvAUS Test! However, he still gets a fine and one demerit point. ➡️ https://t.co/Doji6J7CFl pic.twitter.com/CLUrqTmcmo — ICC (@ICC) March 20, 2018 × ICC Chief Executive David Richardson said: "The ICC wholly accepts today’s decision and I would like to thank Mr. Heron for overseeing the hearing in a short time frame before the next Test starts in South Africa. Rabada contested the ban saying that the incident was accidental and had appealed against the ban. The appeal was heard by New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron by teleconference on Monday in which he was found "not guilty" but he still he still gets a fine and one demerit point. The South African management was confident and had already put Rabada's name in the 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday at St George's Park, Port Elizabeth. South African squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander and Kagiso Rabada.

Kagiso Rabada 'not guilty' of level 2 offence, available for next match

<p>Australia is currently on the tour of South Africa to play a four-match Test series.</p>

<p>Australia won the first match took the lead but South Africa levelled the series 1-1 by winning the second Test match.</p>

<p><a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kagiso-rabada-faces-suspension-for-disrespecting-steve-smith-35308">Kagiso Rabada</a>&nbsp;had faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe in the second match due to the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off.</p>

<p>Rabada earned <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/kagiso-rabada-faces-suspension-for-disrespecting-steve-smith-35308">3 demerit points</a>&nbsp;which took him to the eight-point threshold which triggers an automatic two-match ban which Rabada is contesting currently.</p>

<p>His&nbsp;appeal against a&nbsp;ban for the last two Tests of the series will be heard by New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron by teleconference on Monday, with a verdict due to be announced within 48 hours.</p>

<p>The third Test match is scheduled to take place from March 22 at St George&#39;s Park, Port Elizabeth for which&nbsp;South Africa has announced its squad&nbsp;list in which Kagiso Rabada has been included along with two other fast bowlers&nbsp;in case he loses his appeal against a ban.</p>

<p>Duanne Olivier and Chris Morris have been included in a 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday.</p>

<p><strong>South African squad:</strong></p>

<p>Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander and <strong>Kagiso Rabada</strong></p>

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Duanne Olivier and Chris Morris have been included in a 17-man squad in case Kagiso Rabada loses his appeal against a ban

Australia is currently on the tour of South Africa to play a four-match Test series. Australia won the first match took the lead but South Africa levelled the series 1-1 by winning the second Test match. Kagiso Rabada had faced a level two charge by the match referee Jeff Crowe in the second match due to the incident when Rabada made a shoulder contact with Australian skipper Steve Smith after sending him off. Rabada earned 3 demerit points which took him to the eight-point threshold which triggers an automatic two-match ban which Rabada is contesting currently. His appeal against a ban for the last two Tests of the series will be heard by New Zealand judicial commissioner Michael Heron by teleconference on Monday, with a verdict due to be announced within 48 hours. The third Test match is scheduled to take place from March 22 at St George's Park, Port Elizabeth for which South Africa has announced its squad list in which Kagiso Rabada has been included along with two other fast bowlers in case he loses his appeal against a ban. Duanne Olivier and Chris Morris have been included in a 17-man squad for the test that starts at Newlands on Thursday. South African squad: Faf du Plessis (captain), Hashim Amla, Temba Bavuma, Quinton de Kock (wkt), Theunis de Bruyn, AB de Villiers, Dean Elgar, Heinrich Klaasen (wkt), Keshav Maharaj, Aiden Markram, Morne Morkel, Chris Morris, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi, Duanne Olivier, Vernon Philander and Kagiso Rabada

Despite ban, Kagiso Rabada named in South Africa's squad against Australia

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