ACA response to CA preliminary findings

28 March, 2018

Cricket Australia have released their preliminary findings into the ball tampering enquiry which includes Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft returning home.

The three are being sent home following Cricket Australia officially reporting the players for breaching article 2.3.5 of Cricket Australia's Code of Conduct.

Speaking from Johannesburg, Australian Cricketers' Association Chief Executive Alistair Nicholson said very serious mistakes, contrary to the spirit of cricket, have been made.

“The players are remorseful for the mistakes they have made.

“And they regret how their actions have represented themselves, team mates, cricket and their country."

Nicholson also spoke of the support being offered to all players.

“The ACA is providing legal and welfare support to all players. Welfare of all players is a highly relevant consideration.”

Regarding the 'cultural review' proposed by Cricket Australia, the ACA supports an independent investigation of the root causes of a culture which was permissive of these acts.

“This assessment must include all contributing parties to this culture, players, coaches and administrators, programs and systems, behaviours and accountabilities," said ACA President Greg Dyer.

“Australia's core values of respect, integrity and fairness must be brought to bear on the game of cricket through such a process.

“The ACA offers its full endeavours to an independent cultural examination, diagnosis and ultimately remedy which must occur in the days, weeks, months and years ahead.

“Australian cricket must remind itself of its purpose that cricket is a teacher of an important Australian life lesson and that is to play with honour first and always.”

© Australian Cricket Players Limited
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The Australian Cricketers’ Association acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders both past and present.