Steve Smith and David Warner have been imposed with heavy sanctions by Cricket Australia who have decided to hand them a one-year ban. Opening batsman Cameron Bancroft who was caught tampering with the ball during the 3rd Test against South Africa has been handed a nine-month ban, a per the reports as in ESPN Cricinfo.
In a press conference held by James Sutherland, the CEO of Cricket Australia last night, it was announced that the inquiry of the ball-tampering incident hasn’t been over and a final verdict would be announced within the next 24-hours. But all the three players were sent home from South Africa.
Also, it was reported that Australia coach Darren Lehmann was not found guilty of any wrongdoing and would continue as the coach of the national team.
“In view of the broader reputational and integrity issues involved, the sanctions that will be contemplated are significant. The process must therefore be thorough to ensure that all relevant issues have been examined. I understand the appetite for urgency given the reputation of Australia as a sporting nation has been damaged in the eyes of many. However, urgency must be balanced with due process given the serious implications for all involved. In addition to sanctions for individuals, Cricket Australia will initiate an independent review into the conduct and culture of our Australian men’s teams,” Sutherland said.
However, the participation of David Warner and Steve Smith in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2018 is now up to the BCCI and IPL Governing Council. The two bodies will soon decide on Warner and Smith’s future in the cash-rich tournament.
