Warner shows remorse, accepts his punishment
DAVID Warner hopes to become a “better teammate and role model” after accepting the 12-month ban handed to him by Cricket Australia, meaning there will be no appeals over the ball-tampering scandal.
Warner yesterday joined sacked skipper Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft in opting not to challenge the suspensions imposed for bringing the game into disrepute during the Cape Town Test.
“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,” Warner tweeted.
The former vice-captain had been mulling over his decision whether to appeal since taking to social media after his Saturday-morning media conference to confirm he was seeking advice on the matter.
The disgraced opener had the most at stake, after admitting he was “resigned to the fact” he may never play for Australia again after being identified as the mastermind of the tampering plans.
CA’s code of conduct – under which the banned trio were found to have brought the game into disrepute – had left Warner with up until the day before next Wednesday’s potential hearing to confirm his position.
Many suspected he would challenge the year-long suspension.
But the 31-year-old’s decision not to – and his pledge to be a “better teammate” – confirm he will play on rather than retire, another option he said he would consider.
Warner’s decision turns the page in one of the ugliest chapters in Australian cricket history and will come as a huge relief for CA.
CA issued a statement yesterday afternoon from CEO James Sutherland acknowledging all three players had accepted their suspensions.
“These are significant penalties for professional cricketers. They were not imposed lightly,” he said.
“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.”