2018 Australian ball-tampering scandal

The 2018 Australian ball-tampering scandal, also known as Sandpapergate, was a cricket cheating scandal surrounding the Australian national cricket team. In March 2018, during the third Test match against South Africa at Newlands in Cape Town, Cameron Bancroft was caught by television cameras trying to rough up one side of the ball with sandpaper to make it swing in flight.[1] Captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner were found to be involved and all three received unprecedented sanctions from Cricket Australia. Although he was found not to have been directly involved, Australia's coach, Darren Lehmann, announced he would step down from his role following the scandal.[2] Smith was replaced by Tim Paine as captain in all formats before Aaron Finch took over from Paine in ODIs and T20Is.[3]

Steve Smith (left) and David Warner (right) were banned by Cricket Australia for 12 months from international and domestic cricket while Cameron Bancroft (not shown) was banned for 9 months.

Background

edit

In March 2018, the Australia national cricket team toured South Africa to play four Test matches against the South Africa national cricket team. Entering the 3rd Test, the series was level 1–1.[4] On 24 March 2018, during the third day of the 3rd Test, after the 43rd over of South Africa's second innings,[5] Australia's Cameron Bancroft was shown on the television coverage and on screens at the ground appearing to rub the ball with a small yellow object.[6][7] After Bancroft realised that he had been seen, he was again shown on the television coverage and on screens at the ground hiding the object in the front of his trousers. He was then approached by the umpires and he showed them a dark microfibre sunglass pouch from his pocket. The umpires inspected the ball and chose neither to offer the ball to the South African team to replace it if they wished, nor award them five penalty runs, the options available to the umpires under Law 41.3 of the Laws of Cricket.[8] This indicated that the ball had not been altered in any noticeable way.[9] At the time, South Africa was 129/2 with a 185 run lead.[5]

At the press conference at the end of the day's play, Bancroft, accompanied by Australia's captain, Steve Smith, admitted that he was shown attempting to alter the condition of the ball using a short length of yellow adhesive tape to which dirt and grit had adhered, forming an abrasive surface.[6][7] Five days later, and after an investigation into the incident by Cricket Australia, he admitted it was sandpaper, which cricketers use to maintain their bats.[10] Smith also admitted that he knew of the plan in advance of Bancroft's actions. Smith said that the plan was made during the lunch break by the "leadership group", which he did not name.[11][12] Smith said it was a "big mistake", and when questioned by the media, said that he would not be standing down as captain of the team.[12][13]

Andy Pycroft, the match referee, charged Bancroft with a Level 2 offence of attempting to alter the condition of the ball.[11] David Richardson, CEO of the International Cricket Council (ICC), charged Smith with "conduct of a serious nature that is contrary to the spirit of the game".[14] Smith accepted the charge and the proposed sanction of two suspension points, which equated to a ban for the next Test match, four demerit points being added to his record, and was fined 100% of his match fee. Bancroft accepted the charge against him, was handed three demerit points and fined 75% of his match fee.[14]

Response

edit

Following Smith's admission, Australia's Prime Minister at that time, Malcolm Turnbull, said it was a "shocking disappointment".[15] He phoned Cricket Australia (CA) Board chairman David Peever[16] directly to express that disappointment and concern, saying that there has to be the strongest action taken.[17] The Australian Sports Commission requested that Smith stand down immediately,[15] and the incident was widely condemned by former international players and officials.[18][19]

In a press release dated 25 March 2018, CA CEO James Sutherland apologised to fans and confirmed that both Smith and Warner had agreed to stand down from their roles of captain and vice-captain respectively for the remainder of the match. In the same release, David Peever announced that Tim Paine, the team's wicket-keeper, had been endorsed by the Board of CA to step in as acting captain, and Smith and Warner would take to the field under him.[20][21][22][23] South Africa went on to win the Test match by 322 runs, Australia dismissed meekly for 107 in the fourth innings.[24]

Cricket Australia investigation

edit

Cricket Australia launched its own investigation into the incident, led by Executive General Manager Team Performance, Pat Howard, with CA Senior Legal Counsel and Head of Integrity Iain Roy.[25] CA CEO James Sutherland joined the investigators in South Africa.[26] On 27 March 2018, before the findings of that investigation were handed down, opening batsman Matt Renshaw was recalled to the squad from Australia ahead of the fourth Test.[27]

On 27 March 2018, Sutherland announced that as a result of the preliminary investigation Smith, Warner and Bancroft had been charged with bringing the game into disrepute, suspended and would be sent home. He said that further sanctions against the three players would be announced within 24 hours, and that CA was satisfied that no one else was involved. He added that as well as Renshaw, opening batsman Joe Burns and all-rounder Glenn Maxwell were added to the squad to replace them, and confirmed that Paine had been appointed captain for the fourth Test. There was no announcement about the vacant vice-captain position.[28] South Africa dominated the fourth Test against the depleted Australian team, winning by 492 runs to inflict Australia's second heaviest defeat by runs, and winning the series 3–1.[29]

Findings

edit

During a meeting on 28 March 2018, lasting over two hours, the Cricket Australia Board considered the report. The three players were sanctioned by Cricket Australia for breaching article 2.3.5 of Cricket Australia's Code of Conduct[30] by engaging in conduct that was contrary to the spirit of the game, unbecoming of a representative, harmful to the interests of the game, and/or which brings the game into disrepute.[31]

Warner was found to be responsible for the development of the plan to alter the condition of the ball and instructing Bancroft on how to do it, including demonstrating the technique to him. He was also found to have failed to prevent the plan being implemented, misled match officials by concealing his knowledge of the plan and not voluntarily reporting his involvement. He received a twelve-month suspension from "all international and domestic cricket" and he "will not be considered for team leadership positions ever again." Warner drew flak from a lot of people, many of them his own countrymen, who believed him to be the reason behind the whole scandal. In the Amazon documentary series about the scandal, The Test, Warner opened up on his struggles and road to getting the respect he lost back in the 12 month ban period he served.[31]

Smith was not found to have known of the plan but failed to take steps to prevent it, told Bancroft to conceal the sandpaper in his trousers, misled match officials and others regarding Bancroft's attempts to artificially alter the condition of the ball, and made misleading public comments regarding the nature, extent and participants of the plan. He received a twelve-month suspension "from all international and domestic cricket" and he "will not be considered for team leadership positions until a minimum of 12 months after the conclusion of [his suspension] from international and domestic cricket. Any consideration of future leadership would be conditional on acceptance by fans and the public, form and authority among the playing group."[31]

Bancroft was found to be a party to the plan to tamper with the ball, that he carried out Warner's instructions, tried to conceal the evidence and made statements to mislead match officials and the public. He received a nine-month suspension from "all international and domestic cricket" and he "will not be considered for team leadership positions until a minimum of 12 months after the conclusion of [his suspension] from international and domestic cricket. Any consideration of future leadership would be conditional on acceptance by fans and the public, form and authority among the playing group."[31]

As well, "[a]ll three players will be permitted to play club cricket and will be encouraged to do so to maintain links with the cricket community. In addition, all three players will be required to undertake 100 hours of voluntary service in community cricket."[31][32]

Ahead of the decision, Smith and Warner had stepped down as captains of the Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad respectively in the 2018 Indian Premier League (IPL).[33][34] On 28 March 2018, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced that neither Smith nor Warner would be able to play in the 2018 IPL.[32][35][36]

Bancroft was contracted to play for English side Somerset in the 2018 County Championship season. On 29 March 2018, Somerset announced that "Bancroft will not be our overseas player for the 2018 season" and that "the club's best interests were at the centre of our decision".[37][38][39] Western Australian Cricket Association CEO Christina Matthews confirmed that under their current rules Bancroft could not play grade cricket because of his suspension. However, she added, a rule change was under consideration.[40]

Sutherland specifically addressed repeatedly broadcast footage of coach Darren Lehmann. It showed him on a walkie-talkie to 12th man Peter Handscomb at the side of the field after the vision of Bancroft was broadcast. Hanscomb then ran onto the field to speak with Bancroft. Sutherland said that the CA investigators were satisfied that Lehmann "sent a message to say 'What in the hell is going on?'– he didn't use 'hell', he used another word", referring to an expletive and that he was not aware of the plan.[41]

Responses from players and coach

edit
 
Darren Lehmann stepped down after the fourth Test against South Africa following the controversy

Warner was the first to respond publicly. In a tweet dated 29 March 2018, he apologised for his part in the incident, and took responsibility for his role in it. He said that he would spend some time with his family, friends and trusted advisers, and would make another statement in the coming days.[42] He later arrived at Sydney Airport with his wife and two young daughters, and when confronted by media, repeated that he would make a statement in the coming days, and that his priority was to get his family home.[43]

Bancroft arrived in Perth on 29 March 2018, and gave a press conference at the WACA. An emotional Bancroft expressed disappointment, regret and remorse, admitting that he had failed as a role model and in the eyes of the broader community, and that when confronted on the field by the umpires and media about his actions he panicked. He asked for forgiveness and said that he would be contributing back to the community.[44][45]

Smith arrived in Sydney later that day. In a press conference at Sydney Airport, a tearful Smith started by saying that he had nothing to add to Cricket Australia's report. He said that as captain of the Australian cricket team, he took full responsibility, and that he had made a serious error in judgement: "It was a failure of leadership, my leadership." As well as apologising to his "teammates, to fans of cricket all over the world and to all Australians who are disappointed and angry", he specifically referred to the effect that the incident had on his parents, causing him to break down, and implored others faced with questionable decisions to consider their parents. He added, "I know I will regret this for the rest of my life. I'm absolutely gutted. I hope in time I can earn back respect and forgiveness."[46][47][48]

Australia's coach Darren Lehmann was cleared by the investigation of any wrongdoing or involvement in the scandal, and said that he would not resign. Of the findings and sanctions, he said that he was "embarrassed" and "disappointed", adding that he hopes people will give all three players a second chance.[49] However, on the same day that the three players returned home, Lehmann announced that he would step down from his role after the conclusion of the fourth Test in Johannesburg. He said in his statement that after watching the press conferences of Bancroft and Smith, "the feeling is that Australian cricket needs to move forward and this is the right thing to do."[50][51]

On 31 March 2018, an emotional Warner gave a press conference in Sydney. In it, he described his actions as inexcusable and deeply regrettable. He apologised for the breach of trust and his actions, accepting full responsibility for the part he played in the incident, and said that the next twelve months would be a tough and emotional time for him. His priority at this time would be the wellbeing of his family. While he hoped to play for Australia again, he was resigned for it not to happen. He said he would spend the coming weeks and months looking at himself "as a man", and would seek advice and expertise to make "serious changes". He supported a CA investigation into the culture of the Australian cricket side. When asked, he said that he would sit down with family, friends and advisers before deciding on his playing future. Some noted that he deflected multiple questions about whether he was the ringleader of the plan or others' involvement in it.[52][53][54]

Disputing the charges and sanctions

edit

In the press release announcing the findings and sanctions, Cricket Australia summarised the review process.

"The Code of Conduct process in this instance is as follows:

  • A report is lodged by the CEO with the Head of Integrity;
  • A review is completed by the Head of Integrity; A Notice of Charge (in conjunction with the report) is provided to the player which includes a specific charge under the Code of Conduct and offers the proposed sanctions;
  • If the player accepts the charge and proposed sanctions, the matter is completed;
  • If the player disputes either the charge or sanctions, there is a hearing before a CA Commissioner;
  • The player may appeal the outcome of that hearing, and if so there is a hearing before an Appeals Commissioner (who is selected from the remaining CA Commissioners)."[31]

It was reported on 31 March 2018 that Bancroft had sought legal advice and was considering his options.[55] It was further reported on 1 April 2018 that all three had sought legal advice and were considering their actions, and importantly that while they all acknowledged erring in Cape Town, they had not formally accepted or challenged their charges or their sanctions issued by CA.[56]

It was also reported that Smith and Warner were expected to push for a relaxation of the sanctions, particularly to allow them to play domestic cricket in Australia and overseas.[57] James Sutherland of CA had previously said that the legal advice they had received was that they did not have jurisdiction requiring other national cricketing bodies to enforce the sanctions. "Under the code we didn't have any clear authority over domestic matches played overseas," he said. "It was talked about but we ascertained based on the legal advice that we didn't have that clear authority.[57]

On 4 April 2018, Steve Smith confirmed that he would not challenge the sanctions. In a tweet, he said "I would give anything to have this behind me and be back representing my country. But I meant what I said about taking full responsibility as Captain of the team. I won't be challenging the sanctions. They've been imposed by CA to send a strong message and I have accepted them."[58]

Also on 4 April 2018, Cameron Bancroft announced that he had advised CA that he accepted the sanction. He tweeted "Today I lodged the paperwork with Cricket Australia and will be accepting the sanction handed down. I would love to put this behind me and will do whatever it takes to earn back the trust of the Australian public. Thank you to all those who have sent messages of support."[59]

On 5 April 2018, David Warner announced that he has accepted the CA sanctions. In a tweet, he said "I have today let Cricket Australia know that I fully accept the sanctions imposed on me. I am truly sorry for my actions and will now do everything I can to be a better person, teammate and role model."[60]

Cricket Australia, in a press release dated 5 April 2018, confirmed that "Smith, Bancroft and Warner have officially advised Cricket Australia they have accepted the charges and sanctions, and no hearings will be required." CA CEO James Sutherland added that "These are significant penalties for professional cricketers. They were not imposed lightly. We know the players will return to playing the game they love, and in doing so, we hope they rebuild their careers and regain the trust of fans".[61]

Cultural review

edit

When announcing the initial findings against Bancroft, Smith and Warner on 27 March 2018, James Sutherland announced that there would also be a deeper review of the "culture and conduct" of Australia's professional cricket teams.[28] The terms of reference of that inquiry is to find a means by which supporters of Australian cricket and the wider community can effectively refresh their commitment to the sport. Further details of the review will be forthcoming, but it will seek input from 'relevant experts', especially to determine how the culture of the Australian men's test side arrived at the point at which it has found itself. Former Australian captain, selector and CA Board member Allan Border welcomed the review, saying that "The Australian cricket team itself is not a popular cricket team, and a lot of their antics on the field have upset a lot of people."[62]

On 6 April 2018, Cricket Australia chairman David Peever[16] announced that former Test batsman Rick McCosker would chair an independent review into cultural, organisational and governance issues, and a player-driven process to set out a charter setting out standards for improved player behaviour and expectations of the Australian men's national side. He was expected to be joined by two former players and two current players on a panel, with that quartet unnamed at the time. That process would form part of the wide-ranging review, which would provide recommendations to the Cricket Australia board. Peter Collins, Director of the Centre for Ethical Leadership and a consultant on ethics, leadership and organisational change would act as a "facilitator" for the process. Peever added that the review will take "whatever time is necessary".[63]

The chief executive of the ICC, Dave Richardson, addressed a news conference on 27 April 2018 about harsher punishments for ball-tampering and other misbehaviour.[64]

Responses to the investigation and sanctions

edit

Before the start of play of the fourth Test between Australia and South Africa on 30 March 2018, newly appointed Australian captain Tim Paine, with the support of his players, approached South African captain Faf du Plessis. After the national anthems were played, both teams shook hands on the field as a gesture of goodwill and respect. Paine hoped that this would become a ritual that symbolises the new direction and attitude his team would be taking after the fallout from Cape Town.[65][66]

While no one contended that the charges and findings against Bancroft, Smith and Warner were not justified, many argued that the sanctions were unprecedented, and that there were flaws in the Cricket Australia (CA) description of the incident. Some did not separate the event—an attempt at ball tampering—from the wider charge brought against the trio of bringing the game into disrepute.

On 29 March 2018, the Australian Cricketers' Association (ACA), which represents the professional first-class cricketers of Australia, released a statement setting out "a number of glaring and clear anomalies in the process to date which causes the ACA to query the severity and proportionality of the proposed sanctions."[67] It went on to say that "The ACA continues to provide welfare and legal support to all players" and that "All Australians would understand the right of the players to receive advice from their advisers, peers and family and the time necessary to ensure the sanctions are fair and proportional." Some see this as the ACA foreshadowing a challenge to CA over the process and sanctions.[68][69][70]

Du Plessis, who was found guilty of ball tampering in 2013 and again in 2016, sent Smith a text message expressing his sympathy. He said that "he's one of the good guys and he's just been caught in a bad place". He agreed when asked if he thought that the sanctions were too harsh. He noted that the sanctions imposed by CA were far greater than those imposed by the ICC for the same incident, and may send a message to the ICC that "maybe they need to sharpen up."[71][72]

Shane Warne, former Australian Test bowler who served a one-year ban for breaching the CA drug code in 2003, condemned the trio for engaging in "premeditated cheating", but believed that the public reaction to the incident resulted in excessive penalties being handed down by CA.[73] English cricket commentator Mark Nicholas wrote "Clearly the captaincy had to go, and equally clearly the vice-captaincy. The punishment that has followed has been extremely severe, and I cannot help but think of Smith and Bancroft."

Former Indian captain Sachin Tendulkar argued that the right decision had been made to uphold the integrity of the game, adding "Winning is important but the way you win is more important."[74] However he defended them, saying that the Australian cricketers have dealt with enough criticism.[75] He also urged media and cricket fans to spare thoughts for their families and that they should be given some breathing space.[76][77]

Former South African player Herschelle Gibbs said, "Hard scenes watching the interviews. Having been through it all, take it on the chin and live with the consequences but remain true to yourself."[78]

Former Australian captain and commentator Ian Chappell said that CA were right to ban Smith and Warner for twelve months, adding that he did not expect Smith would captain Australia again because he had lost the respect of the players. On the duration of the ban, he said "if they would have only given six months to them and they tried to play in Australia's next summer, the booing and crowd reaction would have been so bad. It would have been very hard for the players and it would not have been a very good situation for Cricket Australia."[79]

Former England captain Michael Vaughan thought the bans too harsh, but noted that CA had sent a message to players. Former Australian batsman Tom Moody believed that the punishment did not fit the crime. Indian commentator Harsha Bhogle said that "I honestly do not believe any other country would have handed its captain and lead player a one-year ban for attempted ball-tampering." Meanwhile, former Indian batsman and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar was not surprised by the sanctions. Other cricketers came out in support of the banned players, saying that punishment was too harsh, including Harbhajan Singh, Russel Arnold, Michael Di Venuto and Adam Hollioake.[80]

Gautam Gambhir, the former captain of the IPL side Delhi Daredevils commented that the sanctions imposed on Smith and Warner are quite harsh, and suspected that both may have paid for their roles in a 10-month pay dispute with CA[81][82] that was resolved in August 2017.[83] In a tweet he asked the Australian media and the public to spare thoughts for the families of the disgraced cricketers rather than mocking them. Gambhir also said that "I may be quite emotional but Smith doesn't look to me a cheat."[84][85]

Some criticised CA for its handling of the incident. Former Australian captain Michael Clarke believed that there was more to the incident than CA CEO James Sutherland had said, tweeting "The truth, The full story, Accountability and Leadership- until the public get this Australian cricket is in deep shit!" and that "To [sic] many reputations on the line for the full story not to come out. Cape Town change room is a very small place!" Michael Vaughan was similarly unconvinced, suggesting that Cricket Australia has only made things worse for itself by finding that only three players were involved. Former England wicket-keeper Matt Prior said the official explanation didn't match up with his experiences of how teams work. Former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff was skeptical that other Australian players, particularly the bowlers, were not involved. Former England batsman Kevin Pietersen was unconvinced that coach Darren Lehmann did not know of the plan, while BBC broadcaster Jonathan Agnew believed that there were contradictions in the official narrative.[86]

Commercial fallout

edit

From the outset, many of Cricket Australia's commercial sponsors and partners,[87] including 2018 South African tour naming rights sponsor Qantas, Twenty20 naming rights sponsor Sanitarium, One Day International and Big Bash League naming rights sponsor KFC, domestic Test match naming rights sponsor Magellan Financial Group, Lion XXXX, the Commonwealth Bank, and Bupa expressed their disappointment and shock over the incident. Many demanded a comprehensive explanation from CA, and demanded that they take steps to protect the long term reputation of the sport they had invested in.[88][89][90]

On 29 March 2018, Magellan Financial Group terminated its three-year naming rights sponsorship agreement with CA in response to the ball-tampering scandal. The contract had two more seasons to run, and was estimated to be worth AU$20 million.[91][92]

The incident came as CA was negotiating television broadcast rights to all forms of the game for the next six seasons, estimated at one point to be valued at greater than AU$900 million.[93] Bidding has not been as high as CA expected, and some expect that the ball tampering incident may further affect those negotiations.[94]

Player contracts

edit

On 28 March, Smith and Warner were banned from the 2018 edition of the IPL. Both the players were going to make A$2.4 million.[95]

On 11 April 2018, Cricket Australia announced the list of 20 players who have been awarded national contracts for 2018–19. Bancroft, Smith and Warner were not on that list, and they were not mentioned in the media release.[96]

In April 2018, Surrey head coach and former Australian cricketer Michael Di Venuto stated that his county would be willing to sign either Smith or Warner during their ban from international cricket.[97]

Individual sponsorships

edit

The LG Electronics company in Australia announced that they had chosen not to renew their personal sponsorship of Warner on 27 March 2018, citing "recent events". Warner had been in a commercial arrangement with LG since 2014. That arrangement was in its final weeks and was being considered for renewal at the time of his suspension.[98][99] As well as this incident, his behaviour came under the spotlight during the first Test of the tour after the dismissal of South African batsman AB de Villiers.[100] He was then involved in a highly publicised personal and escalating verbal altercation with South African batsman Quinton de Kock as they were leaving the field. Warner's teammates intervened to separate them. Both were charged by the match referee and penalised.[101][102] Earlier in this Test, Warner was involved in a heated exchange with a spectator after being dismissed in Australia's first innings. The spectator was ejected from the ground.[103]

On 29 March 2018, sporting apparel company ASICS terminated their commercial arrangements with Warner and Bancroft. The Commonwealth Bank terminated their brand ambassador arrangement with Smith, as did Sanitarium for whom Smith was an ambassador for their Weet-Bix product.[104]

Return to cricket

edit

Bancroft was the first of three banned players to return to Australian professional cricket. On 30 December 2018, he represented the Perth Scorchers in the 2018–19 Big Bash League season.[105] In the match he scored two runs from three balls,[106] with the Hobart Hurricanes going on to win the game by six wickets.[107]

The bans on Smith and Warner ended on 29 March 2019, coinciding with the date of the fourth One Day International (ODI) match of Australia's series against Pakistan in the United Arab Emirates,[108][109] however neither made their international return until the first match of the 2019 Cricket World Cup. The trio made their returns to the Test arena at Edgbaston on 1 August in the first Test of the 2019 Ashes series, with Smith’s scores of 144 and 142 earning him the man of the match award as Australia beat England by 251 runs.[110] The players had sandpaper waved at them by the English fans during the match.[111]

In February 2020, Smith and Warner were named in Australia's limited overs squads for their tour to South Africa.[112] They both played in the opening Twenty20 International (T20I) match of the tour,[113] the first time they had represented Australia in South Africa since their bans.[114]

Cricket Australia has reopened an investigation into the scandal after Bancroft hinted that some bowlers also knew about it.[115][116]

Documentary

edit

A docu-series The Test: A New Era for Australia's Team based on the return of the Australian team after the 2018 ball-tampering scandal was streamed on Amazon Prime Video on 11 March 2020 with 8 episodes.[117][118][119][120]

See also

edit
  • Deflategate, American football ball-tampering incident
  • Spitball, a baseball pitch where a substance has been illegally added to the ball to alter its flight characteristics
  • Corked bat, a baseball bat that has been modified with foreign substances

References

edit
  1. ^ "Bancroft, Smith admit to ball tampering". Cricinfo. Retrieved 28 March 2018.
  2. ^ "Australian ball-tampering: Darren Lehmann to quit as Australia coach". BBC Sport. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  3. ^ "Paine to be Australia's 46th Test captain". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  4. ^ "CSA announces Zimbabwe and India tour itineraries". Cricket South Africa. Archived from the original on 19 June 2018. Retrieved 27 September 2017.
  5. ^ a b "Get Ball by Ball Commentary of South Africa vs Australia, AUS tour of SA, 3rd Test | ESPNcricinfo.com". ESPNcricinfo. Retrieved 12 April 2021.
  6. ^ a b "Cameron Bancroft at centre of alleged ball-tampering row". ESPN Cricinfo. 24 March 2018. Retrieved 24 March 2018.
  7. ^ a b "Bancroft and Smith answer to ball tampering allegations". International Cricket Council. Retrieved 24 March 2018.
  8. ^ "Law 41 – Unfair play". www.lords.org.
  9. ^ "Footage of mystery object sparks ball tampering claims against Bancroft". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 25 March 2018.
  10. ^ "Sticky truth about sandpaper revelation". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 28 March 2018.
  11. ^ a b "Australia own up to ball tampering". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 24 March 2018.
  12. ^ a b "Cameron Bancroft: Australia player admits to ball-tampering, Steve Smith knew in advance". BBC Sport. 24 March 2018. Retrieved 24 March 2018.
  13. ^ "Desperation drove Australia to cheat – Smith". ESPN Cricinfo. 24 March 2018. Retrieved 24 March 2018.
  14. ^ a b "Steve Smith suspended and Bancroft handed three demerit points". Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  15. ^ a b "Australian government calls for Steven Smith to be removed as captain". ESPN Cricinfo. 25 March 2018. Retrieved 25 March 2018.
  16. ^ a b "David Peever, Cricket Australia's invisible man". Sydney Morning Herald. smh.com.au. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  17. ^ "Ball-tampering scandal: Cricket Australia under mounting scrutiny over team culture". abc.net.au. April 2018. Retrieved 1 April 2018.
  18. ^ "UPDATE 1-Cricket-How the world reacted to Australian ball-tampering scandal". Reuters. 25 March 2018. Archived from the original on 29 March 2018.
  19. ^ "Cameron Bancroft ball tampering video, Steve Smith captaincy". Fox Sports. 25 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  20. ^ "Cricket Australia Statement". Cricket Australia. Archived from the original on 31 March 2018. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  21. ^ "'We are sorry' – Cricket Australia apologies to fans". International Cricket Council. Retrieved 25 March 2018.
  22. ^ Matthey, James; Blair, Alex (25 March 2018). "SMITH STANDS DOWN: Australia has a new Test captain". news.com.au. Retrieved 25 March 2018.
  23. ^ "Steven Smith and Warner stood down as captain and vice-captain". ESPN Cricinfo. 25 March 2018. Retrieved 25 March 2018.
  24. ^ "Heavy defeat adds to Australian ignominy". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  25. ^ "CA launches ball tampering probe". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 27 March 2018.
  26. ^ "Inquiry findings due on Wednesday". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 27 March 2018.
  27. ^ "Renshaw added to Australia squad". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 27 March 2018.
  28. ^ a b "Trio suspended by Cricket Australia". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 27 March 2018.
  29. ^ "Australia slump to 90-year low". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 3 April 2018.
  30. ^ "Code of Conduct 2017". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 2 April 2018.
  31. ^ a b c d e f "Cricket Australia Statement on investigation". Cricket Australia. Archived from the original on 4 May 2019. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  32. ^ a b "Tampering trio learn their fate". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 28 March 2018.
  33. ^ "Steven Smith steps down as Rajasthan Royals captain following ball-tampering scandal". ESPN Cricinfo. Retrieved 25 March 2018.
  34. ^ "Warner steps down as Sunrisers Hyderabad captain". ESPN Cricinfo. 28 March 2018. Retrieved 28 March 2018.
  35. ^ "Warner and Smith axed from IPL 2018". ESPN Cricinfo. 28 March 2018. Retrieved 28 March 2018.
  36. ^ "IPL tear up $2.4m Warner, Smith deals". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 28 March 2018.
  37. ^ "Club Statement: Cameron Bancroft". Somerset County Cricket Club. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  38. ^ "Cameron Bancroft: Australia batsman will not join Somerset after ball-tampering scandal". BBC Sport. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  39. ^ "Cameron Bancroft will not join Somerset as overseas player". Wisden. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  40. ^ "Bancroft: 'What breaks my heart'". 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  41. ^ "What in the hell is going on?". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  42. ^ "Warner speaks out on his role in 'stain on the game' ball tampering". ABC News (Australia). 29 March 2018.
  43. ^ "Warner speaks on arrival in Sydney". cricket.com.au. 29 March 2018.
  44. ^ "'I'm absolutely gutted': Distraught Smith apologises for ball-tampering scandal". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  45. ^ "I lied, I panicked – I'm sorry: Bancroft". Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  46. ^ "Emotional Smith breaks down at press conference". Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  47. ^ "'I'm absolutely gutted': Distraught Smith apologises for ball-tampering scandal". Australian Broadcasting Corporation. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  48. ^ "Tearful Steve Smith Takes Responsibility & Says: I Hope I Can Earn Forgiveness". 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  49. ^ "Lehmann: 'We need to change the way we play'". International Cricket Council. Retrieved 28 March 2018.
  50. ^ "Lehmann announces shock resignation". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  51. ^ "Darren Lehmann steps down as Australia coach over ball-tampering scandal". abc.net.au. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  52. ^ "Emotional Warner leaves questions unanswered". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  53. ^ "David Warner apologises for role in cricket ball-tampering scandal". ABC News. abc.net.au. 31 March 2018. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  54. ^ "Live: David Warner speaks about his role in the ball tampering scandal". news.com.au. 30 March 2018. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  55. ^ "Ball-tampering scandal: Cameron Bancroft set to appeal nine-month suspension". The Western Australian. 30 March 2018. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  56. ^ "David Warner, Cameron Bancroft and Steve Smith considering CA Code of Behaviour hearing". news.com.au. April 2018. Retrieved 1 April 2018.
  57. ^ a b "Smith, Warner to push for domestic clearance". ESPN Cricinfo. April 2018. Retrieved 1 April 2018.
  58. ^ "Smith confirms he won't appeal ban". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  59. ^ "Bancroft accepts CA sanction". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
  60. ^ "'Sorry': Warner accepts CA ban". criecket.com.au. Retrieved 5 April 2018.
  61. ^ "Cricket Australia Statement April 05, 2018". Cricket Australia. Archived from the original on 5 April 2018. Retrieved 5 April 2018.
  62. ^ "Cape Town yields map for culture change". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  63. ^ "CA announce cultural review". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 6 April 2018.
  64. ^ "ICC wants harsher punishment for ball tampering". Hindustan Times. 17 June 2018. Retrieved 28 July 2018.
  65. ^ "Handshakes usher in new Aussie mindset". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  66. ^ "Australia-South Africa handshakes a show of respect – Tim Paine". BBC Sport. 30 March 2018. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  67. ^ "ACA response to proposed player sanctions". www.auscricket.com.au. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  68. ^ "ACA questions severity of ball-tampering bans". SBS News. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  69. ^ "ACA says the banned ball-tampering trio have been harshly treated". Sky Sports. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  70. ^ NDTVSports.com. "Ball-Tampering Row: Australian Cricketers' Association Criticises Bans on Steve Smith, David Warner – NDTV Sports". NDTVSports.com. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  71. ^ "Smith 'a good guy caught in a bad place' – du Plessis". ESPN Cricinfo. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  72. ^ "I have compassion for what Steve Smith's going through, did send him a text: Faf du Plessis". The Indian Express. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  73. ^ "Warne weighs in on tampering saga". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  74. ^ "Sachin Tendulkar supports Cricket Australia ban on Steve Smith, David Warner". Hindustan Times. 28 March 2018. Retrieved 28 July 2018.
  75. ^ "Sachin Tendulkar had the perfect reaction to Australia's ball-tampering scandal". GiveMeSport. 30 March 2018. Archived from the original on 30 March 2018. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  76. ^ Arvinth, Karthick. "Ball-tampering scandal: Sachin Tendulkar wants 'hurt' Smith, Warner to be left alone". International Business Times, India Edition. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  77. ^ "Sachin Tendulkar comes out with heartfelt message over Smith and Warner for the fans". TimesNow. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  78. ^ "Australian ball-tampering: Steve Smith, David Warner & Cameron Bancroft punishments 'too harsh'". BBC Sport. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 28 July 2018.
  79. ^ "Australia ball-tampering scandal: Ian Chappell believes Steve Smith will not captain national team ever again". www.firstpost.com. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  80. ^ "Some in cricket finally prepared to fight for Smith, Bancroft and Warner". news.com.au. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  81. ^ "Did Steve Smith, David Warner pay for revolt on pay hike against CA: Gautam Gambhir". Zee News. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  82. ^ "Gautam Gambhir Issues Passionate Defence of Steve Smith, Questions Cricket Australia". News18. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  83. ^ "CA, ACA agree terms to end pay dispute". cricket.com.au. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  84. ^ "Are Smith and Warner paying for revolt for pay hike? asks Gambhir". The Times of India. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  85. ^ "Gautam Gambhir rejects to point out Steve Smith as a cheat". TimesNow. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  86. ^ "Ball-tampering scandal: Michael Clarke says we haven't heard the full story from Cricket Australia". abc.com.au. 27 March 2018. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  87. ^ "OUR PARTNERS". cricketaustralia.com.au. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  88. ^ Gray, Darren (26 March 2018). "'A shameful moment for Australian sport': Cricket sponsors hit out". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  89. ^ "Sponsors put Australian cricket on notice as ball-tampering scandal..." Reuters. 26 March 2018. Archived from the original on 29 March 2018.
  90. ^ "UPDATE 1-Sponsors put Australian cricket on notice as..." Reuters. 26 March 2018.
  91. ^ "Magellan terminates partnership with Cricket Australia". proactiveinvestors.com.au. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  92. ^ "Ashes sponsor deserts Cricket Australia in wake of ball-tampering scandal". abc.net.au. 29 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  93. ^ Duke, Jennifer (23 March 2018). "Cricket Australia tells major networks to resubmit rights bids". The Sydney Morning Herald.
  94. ^ "Australia's cheating shame could cost the game millions in television rights deal". Courier Mail. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  95. ^ "IPL tear up $2.4m Warner, Smith deals". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 25 November 2018.
  96. ^ "Male contracted player list announced for 2018-19". Cricket Australia - media releases. Archived from the original on 11 April 2018. Retrieved 11 April 2018.
  97. ^ "Surrey open to Warner, Smith county deals". ESPN Cricinfo. 18 April 2018. Retrieved 30 August 2021.
  98. ^ Scroll Staff. "LG Electronics decides to not renew contract with David Warner after ball-tampering scandal". Scroll.in. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  99. ^ Gray, Darren (28 March 2018). "LG decides 'not to renew' David Warner sponsorship". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  100. ^ "David Warner in spotlight for fiery send-off of AB de Villiers – and cops a spray from former South African skipper Graeme Smith". news.com.au. 4 March 2018. Retrieved 30 March 2018.
  101. ^ "Warner cleared to play second Test". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  102. ^ "Warner slams coward's 'disgusting' wife sledge". news.com.au. 7 March 2018. Retrieved 29 March 2018.
  103. ^ "Warner in heated exchange with spectator after dismissal". ESPN. 23 March 2018. Retrieved 31 March 2018.
  104. ^ Mullen, Jethro (29 March 2018). "Sponsors are dumping Australia's cheating cricket stars". CNNMoney. Retrieved 27 July 2018.
  105. ^ "Bancroft fails to deliver in return". Cricket Australia. Retrieved 30 December 2018.
  106. ^ "Cameron Bancroft makes two on Big Bash return after ban for ball-tampering". BBC Sport. 30 December 2018. Retrieved 30 December 2018.
  107. ^ "Hurricanes bowlers help them extend unbeaten run". ESPN Cricinfo. Retrieved 30 December 2018.
  108. ^ "Warner, Smith bans to expire during Pakistan series in March". ESPN Cricinfo. 10 February 2019. Retrieved 10 February 2019.
  109. ^ "Dubai in line to host Steve Smith and David Warner comebacks in Pakistan-Australia ODI". The National. 10 February 2019. Retrieved 10 February 2019.
  110. ^ Wu, Andrew (1 August 2019). "The Ashes 2019, first Test, day one LIVE: Australia take on England in Edgbaston". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 1 August 2019.
  111. ^ "David Warner Gets 'Sandpaper' Send-Off from Crowd at Edgbaston | Cricket News". Ndtvsports.com.
  112. ^ "Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Wade, Mitchell Marsh return to Australian colours". ESPN Cricinfo. Retrieved 4 February 2020.
  113. ^ "1st T20I (N), Australia tour of South Africa at Johannesburg, Feb 21 2020". ESPN Cricinfo. Retrieved 21 February 2020.
  114. ^ "Australia braced for Bullring test as Smith, Warner make South Africa return". ESPN Cricinfo. Retrieved 21 February 2020.
  115. ^ "CA hoped it closed the book on sandpapergate. Bancroft's bombshell blew it wide open". Fox Sports. 15 May 2021. Retrieved 15 May 2021.
  116. ^ "Cricket Australia to reopen 'Sandpaper Gate' investigation after Bancroft hints". gulfnews.com. Retrieved 15 May 2021.
  117. ^ "'The Test: A New Era for Australia's Team' review: Masterful storytelling of an unlikely underdog story". The New Indian Express. 21 March 2020. Retrieved 25 March 2020.
  118. ^ Balachandran, Kanishkaa (18 March 2020). "'The Test' review: Amazon Prime docu-series is all about the Australian cricket team's path to redemption". The Hindu. ISSN 0971-751X. Retrieved 25 March 2020.
  119. ^ Rota, Genevieve (24 March 2020). "Doco or propaganda? The Test shines light on Aussie cricket team". The Sydney Morning Herald. Retrieved 25 March 2020.
  120. ^ "Cricket Australia, The Test on Amazon Prime, video: Tim Paine and Virat Kohli sledge in Perth". Fox Sports. 12 March 2020. Retrieved 25 March 2020.
edit