OTD| Infamous sandpaper gate took over the headlines as Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft admitted to ball-tampering in 2018

In this article, we will discuss how OTD Infamous sandpaper gate took over the headlines as Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft admitted to ball-tampering in 2018. One of the most tragic chapters in the history of Australian cricket unfolded today as former captain Steve Smith and Camron Bancroft were caught tampering with the ball. They admitted to the accusations of ball-tampering which created a huge furore in Australia and also in the global cricket fraternity. 

A tightly contested series takes an ugly turn

The 4-match Test series between South Africa and Australia was a fierce competition which was eventually clinched by the Proteas. Temperatures rose significantly in the third Test at Cape Town. Cameron Bancroft was caught using an alien object by cameras. He was applying and rubbing that object against the ball. After a few replays, it was clear that Bancroft was using sandpaper to alter the condition of the ball. Umpires Nigel Llong and Richard Illingworth were conveyed about this untoward incident. This footage was also shown on the large screens on the ground which made everyone curious as to what was happening. 

The Australian dressing room and the coach Darren Lehmann were shocked. Umpires talked to Bancroft about the incident. Captain Smith came to defend his player and clear the air. The discussions about that incident stopped for a while but by the end of the third day, it became a massive headline all around. Bancroft had no other option but to admit that he was trying to tamper with the ball. 

He further explained that the plans were made at lunch time and senior players were also present in the discussion. The responsibility then shifted to Steve Smith and his deputy David Warner. Later Smith shared the blame and admitted that these plans were made under his supervision. Both Smith and Warner had to step down from their roles. All three players returned to Australia immediately after the third Test ended. The Australian board banned Smith and Warner for a year and Bancroft for nine months. This incident changed Australian cricket forever.