12 months ban on David Warner and Steve Smith to be upheld

New South Wales have confirmed that the duo won't be featuring for them till the ban gets over.

David Warner and Steve Smith | Getty

Having already been banned by Cricket Australia(CA) for 12 months, former Australian captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner have received a big blow from their domestic state association New South Wales. The Sydney based NSW, has said in an official release that the bans were "heavy but proportionate to the public's disappointment", while also supporting the stance taken by the game's governing body in the country. 

NSW chairman John Knox wrote in an annual report, "Cricket NSW supports the strong stance taken by Cricket Australia, Australia's millions of passionate fans expect that their national team not only plays good, competitive cricket but plays it in the right spirit. Our players represent all of us on the world stage." and added, "However, having been dealt harsh penalties and shown true remorse for their mistakes, it is important that the NSW cricket family supports Steve and David through these tough times and welcomes them back when they return. We are all human."

"During the season, cricket throughout Australia and across the world was shocked by the ball-tampering incident in South Africa. This was particularly upsetting for Cricket NSW with two of our finest players, national captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner, subsequently suspended by the Cricket Australia Board for 12 months."

There were rumors spreading around that the state side might rope both their stalwarts into the squad for the upcoming domestic season but they've been further put to rest by Andrew Jones, the NSW chief executive. 

"The 12-month bans handed to Steve and David were heavy but proportionate to the public's disappointment, Cricket Australia should be commended for its principled stance on a challenging issue." Jones was quoted saying, "That said, it was obvious from their press conferences that Steve and David truly regret the incident."

"They have accepted their punishment and are working hard to restore public faith in themselves and the game. It is important that the NSW cricket family supports Steve and David through this difficult time. We look forward to welcoming them both back onto the cricket field when NSW Premier Cricket begins in late September." he concluded. 

(Inputs from Cricbuzz)

 
 

By Kashish Chadha - 04 Sep, 2018

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