Steve Smith breaks down during press-conference, apologizes for his actions
Steve Smith apologized to the entire nation in a press conference after landing in Sydney on Thursday. Smith, who has been served a 12-month ban alongside David Warner for orchestrating the ball-tampering incident against South Africa, broke down several times while addressing the media. He stated that he is devastated for letting down the nation. We have summarised Smith's emotional presser.
There was a failure of leadership: Smith
The 28-year-old said that he is extremely sorry and takes full responsibility for the ball-tampering incident. "There was a failure of leadership, my leadership," claimed Smith, who will not be able to captain Australia for the next two years. He also vowed to make up for the mistake and the damage his decision making caused. The player also added he will regret this forever.
'Sorry for the pain I've brought to Australia'
Smith was inconsolable after stating how he let his family down. Over the years, he has been a role model for young kids to take up the sport and he pointed out how he loves to entertain them. The star batsman, who has been a vital cog in Australia's success, signed off by apologizing for all the pain he has brought to Australia.
Johnson believes Smith will learn from this
Gave up my spot in team for free, says Bancroft
Australian opener Cameron Bancroft also spoke to the media on his return to Perth. The player, whose first-class club contract with Somerset is in doubt, was banned for nine months by Cricket Australia. Bancroft claimed that he is devastated for giving up his hard-earned place in the side for free. A remorseful Bancroft also cited that earning respect back will be a difficult journey.
