Published: Mar 25, 2018, 12:20 PM (IST)
Edited: Mar 25, 2018, 12:16 PM (IST)
Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull expressed his “shock” over “cheating” of Australian cricketers and expressed his regret. On Saturday, one of the most shameful chapters in history of Australian cricket unfolded during the already heated South Africa-Australia Test series. Steven Smith and teammate Cameron Bancroft shockingly admitted to ball-tampering charges during the third Test in Cape Town. Smith in the press conference confirmed that Bancroft’s illegal actions with the ball were done with the full knowledge of the team’s leadership group.
Upon learning about the incident, former England and Australian cricketers termed Australians as cheats on Twitter. Michael Clarke also opened the possibility of returning to the Australian set up as Test captain. While Cricket Australia are investigating the matter, Smith shall remain the captain until further notice. Meanwhile, PM Turnbull spoke about the disappointments.
A report from The Cricketer, quoted Turnbull: “It seemed completely beyond belief that the Australian cricket team had been involved in cheating. After all 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. I have to say, that [for] the whole nation, who holds those who wear the Baggy Green up on a pedestal, about as high as you can get in Australia, certainly higher than any politician thats for sure, this is a shocking disappointment. It’s wrong and I look forward to Cricket Australia taking decisive action soon.”
