NEW DELHI: Distraught Australian cricket captain Steve Smith Thursday accepted full responsibility for a ball-tampering scandal that has shaken the sport, saying he was devastated by his "big mistake".
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"I take full responsibility, I made a serious error of judgement and I understand the consequences. It was a failure of leadership," he said before breaking down in tears.
ALSO READ: Twitter reactions to Steve Smith’s emotional press conferenceWATCH THE FULL VIDEO HERE:
ALSO READ: Ball-tampering scandal: Key takeaways from Cricket Australia's sanctions“I don't blame anyone,” said a teary-eyed Smith. “I'm the captain of the Australian team. It's on my watch and I take responsibility for what happened last Saturday.”
He went on to add, “Cricket is the greatest sport in the world. It's been my life and I hope it can be again. I'm sorry and I'm absolutely devastated.”
ALSO READ: Warner apologises, 'takes responsibility' for part in scandal“If any good can come of this, if there can be a lesson to others then I hope I can be a force for change. I know I'll regret this for the rest of my life. I'm absolutely gutted. I hope in time I can earn back respect and forgiveness,” he said.