Pollies from both sides wade in

POLITICIANS from all sides of the divide have united in criticism of the Australian cricket team’s ball scandal.

“This is a shocking disappointment, it’s wrong and I look forward to Cricket Australia taking decisive action soon,” said Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

“Rightfully branded as sporting cheats. Smith should resign as captain for the ball tampering plot and Australia should probably forfeit the Third Test,” Senator Derryn Hinch said on Twitter.

Senator Richard Colbeck, tweeted that he was “bloody furious” and called for the en- tire Australian team to be brought home.

“Bring them all home, don’t want them representing my country! Tour over,” he wrote.

“Wasn’t a “mistake” it was premeditated.

“@CricketAus have to deal with this now and show we won’t put up with this behav- iour (sic).” Labor Senator Helen Polley said the scandal had damaged Australia’s national and international reputation.

“We don’t cheat,” she tweeted.

“Unacceptable, beggers belief the leadership would be involved. Sad for all Aust sportspeople (sic).”

Labor Lyons MHR Brian Mitchell said it was a dark day for Australian cricket, and character building should start at a junior level “to make it clear this is unacceptable.”