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".
Key Highlights
Smith broke down while addressing the media after his arrival in Sydney stating that he is sorry for his actions and is absolutely devastated
The 28-year-old was banned for 12 months from international cricket by Cricket Australia
He added that the entire incident was a failure of his leadership in Cape Town
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". ALSO READ: It was failure of my leadership, says emotional Steve Smith "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: 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.