Continuing the trend from Durban and Port Elizabeth, the ongoing Cape Town test match between Australia and South Africa has seen its fair share of controversies already.
The third day of the match belonged to South Africa as they acquired a lead of a shade under 300 without breaking much sweat.
Looking at the situation of the game, the Australians resorted to unfair means during the post-lunch sessions to stir up proceedings their way.
As a result, Steve Smith and co. decided to tamper with the ball using Cameron Bancroft as a scapegoat. The cameras clearly caught the Australian opener looking to scruff up the surface of the ball using a sandpaper.
During the press conference, Steve Smith stated that he was fully aware of Bancroft’s action and that it was a decision made by the leadership team.
“I had discussions with the match officials, I’ve been charged with attempting to change the condition of the ball,” revealed Cameron Bancroft during the press conference post day’s play at Cape Town.
Interestingly, the gamble taken by the Australian cricket team didn’t quite work as it had no change on the ball.
Have to live with the consequences and the damage its done to my reputation: Bancroft
“We had a discussion during the break and I saw an opportunity to use some tape, get some granules from the rough patches on the wickets and change the condition, it didn’t work, the umpires didn’t change the ball,” added the West Australian.
“I was cited on the screen and that resulted in me shoving it down my trousers. Also was in the wrong place at the wrong time. I want to be here because I want to be accountable for what happened. I have to live with the consequences and the damage its done to my reputation,” concluded an apologetic Cameron Bancroft.
