Ball Tampering scam: Cameron Bancroft 'regrets' his act

Cricket Australia handed him a nine-month ban from international cricket after he was found guilty of ball tampering during the third Test match against South Africa recently.

After arriving in Australian city of Perth, Bancroft faced the media and apologised to the nation's public and fans for his involvement in the scam, during the third Test match of the series which South Africa is leading 2-1.

One more match in the series is yet to be played.

"I want to say that I am very sorry," Cameron Bancroft was quoted as saying by the Cricket Australia website.

"I love the game of cricket and playing for my nation and my state there is no greater pride for me," he said.

“I am extremely disappointed and regret my actions," he said.

The Australian cricketer regretted that he could not be the role model for his followers around the world.

"I am sorry to the people who have looked up to me around the world, especially the kids. I know I’m a role model and haven’t acted like one in this instance," he said.

“I understand that I have let people down and I understand the disappointment in the broader community," he said.

“Words don’t mean much in these circumstances, so I will focus on my actions and my conduct going forward," the Australian said.

He said he will focus now on contributing to the community.

“It is something I will regret for the rest of my life. It is something I will look to improve on and earn the respect back of the community," he said.

“All I can do in the short term is ask for forgiveness, I hope you can allow it in your hearts to allow me to progress on that journey," Cameron Bancroft said.

“For now, I will do the best to contribute to the community," he said.

Following its investigation, Cricket Australia, the sport's highest governing body in the nation, imposed a year-long ban on Steven Smith and David Warner.

Cameron Bancroft, who was caught red-handed attempting to tamper the ball with a yellow substance, what now appears to be a sandpaper, has been handed a nine-month ban.

Another tainted Australian cricketer David Warner has tendered an apology for his involvement in the sandpapergate.

"To cricket fans in Australia and all over the world: I am currently on my way back to Sydney. Mistakes have been made which have damaged cricket," the explosive Aussie opener said.

"I apologise for my part and take responsibility for it. I understand the distress this has caused the sport and it fans.

"It's a stain on the game we all love and I have loved since I was a boy," Warner said.

He said that he will now spend time with his family and friends.

"You will hear from me in a few days," he said.

 

Image: Cameron Bancroft Twitter page