Cameron Bancroft (second from right) © Getty Images
Cameron Bancroft (second from right) © Getty Images

Australian opening batsman Cameron Bancroft is likely to face a plethora of questions over an incident captured by television cameras during Day Three’s play of the ongoing third Test against South Africa at Newlands. Bancroft was spoken to by umpires Nigel Llong and Richard Illingworth during the 43rd over of South Africa’s second innings after appearing to have an object in his hand while at covers. Bancroft appeared to place a small yellow object in his underpants during umpires’ conferring.

The umpires went across to talk to him, and Bancroft reached into a pocket and showed them what seemed to be a different object – what looked like a soft pouch for sunglasses.

The aftermaths of the incident has already begun with many cricketers, former players and from women’s fraterntiy, having their say on Twitter.

The incident has surely sparked another controversy in the high-voltage series with tempers flying all around at regular intervals. Skipper Steven Smith and Bancroft, after the end of day’s play, spoke to the media and gave their side of the story.

Talking about the third Test, it has been a struggle for Australia. South Africa batted first to pile up 311 courtesy Dean Elgar’s 141*. In reply, Australia folded for 255 with Morne Morkel and Kagiso Rabada sharing eight scalps in between. With a lead of 56 runs, South Africa have already ensured Australia a target beyond 300 with 5* wickets in hand.