BALL OF SHAME

Embattled Australia returned on Friday to the business of playing cricket after a week of scandal, suspensions, confessions and torrents of tears. The Australian team took to the field in Johannesburg for the final Test against South Africa of a series that will be forever tainted by the ball-tampering scandal. Just six days earlier, Australian fielder Cameron Bancroft was caught by TV cameras trying to tamper with the ball using sandpaper, triggering a dramatic series of events that led to captain Steve Smith and two other players being banned and coach Darren Lehmann announcing he will stand down after this match. Lehmann gathered his shell-shocked team in a huddle before action began at Wanderers Stadium, but admitted it was hard to concentrate.

TOO SEVERE?

I n Australia, a wave of sympathy for the disgraced Smith was gathering pace after he gave a heartwrenching public apology. Smith’s tearful appearance in front of media helped trigger Lehmann’s resignation but also prompted calls to rein in criticism which has verged on hysterical during an extraordinary week for Australian cricket.

ANOMALIES

T he Australian Cricketers’ Association argued that the sanctions were disproportionate compared to other sanctions for balltampering. “There are a number of glaring anomalies in the process which causes the ACA to query the severity of the proposed sanctions,” a statement said.

I made a serious error of judgement and I understand the consequences. It was a failure of leadership. I will do everything to make up for my mistake. It can be a lesson for others. Cricket is my life and hope it can be again. I’m sorry. I’m absolutely devastated. - STEVE SMITH

I apologise for my part and take responsibility for it. It's a stain on the game we all love and I have loved since I was a boy. I need to take a deep breath and spend time with my family, friends and trusted advisers. - DAVID WARNER