HIT FOR SIX

6 DAYS THAT DECIMATED AUSTRALIAN CRICKET

SATURDAY 1.15pm (UK time)

Television footage shows Cameron Bancroft taking sandpaper out of his pocket and tucking it down the front of his trousers (right).

5pm:

During the post-match press briefing, captain Steve Smith admits his side deliberately tried to tamper with the ball but said he would not step down as captain. Bancroft was charged by the ICC.

SUNDAY 9am:

Smith and Warner relinquish their roles as captain and vice-captain for the rest of the Test.

1pm:

Smith is handed a one-match suspension and a fine by the ICC, Bancroft fined and given three demerit points.

4.30pm:

Australia fall to a 322-run defeat by South Africa after being dismissed for 107 in the second innings.

MONDAY

Cricket Australia chief James Sutherland (left) flies to South Africa to lead the investigation, declaring: ‘We know Australians want answers.’ It also emerges that Australian cricket’s major sponsors are considering their involvement.

TUESDAY

Smith, Warner and Bancroft are sent home in disgrace with Sutherland promising ‘significant’ sanctions to come.

WEDNESDAY

Cricket Australia ban Smith and Warner for 12 months, with Bancroft receiving a nine-month ban.

YESTERDAY 6am:

Warner apologises with a statement on Twitter, adding: ‘You will hear from me in a few days.’

8.30am:

Bancroft speaks to media in apology and says the situation ‘breaks my heart . . . I’ve given up my spot in the team for free’.

9.45am:

Smith breaks down in tears at his press conference in Sydney, saying: ‘I’ll regret this for the rest of my life, I’m absolutely gutted.’

1pm:

In Johannesburg, Lehmann announces his decision to step down as head coach at the end of the series.

PS: IT REMINDED US OF KIM HUGHES IN 1984 ALL OVER AGAIN!