A tearful David Warner apologised for his role in the ball tampering scandal that ruined his career, saying he is resigned to the fact that he may not play for his country again. Warner broke down in tears several times as he faced the media for the first time since the ball tampering conspiracy that shocked the world last week during the third day of the third Test against South Africa at Newlands, Cape Town.
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“To the fans and the lovers of the game who have supported and inspired me on my journey as a cricketer, I want to sincerely apologise for betraying your trust in me, Warner said during an emotional press conference. I have let you down badly. I hope in time I can find a way to repay you for all you’ve given me and earn you respect again,” Warner said.
“I suppose there is a tiny ray of hope that I may one day be given the privilege of playing for my country again, but I am resigned to the fact that may never happen. To my teammates and support staff, I apologise for my actions and take full responsibility for what happened on day three of the Newlands Test,” he added
Warner alongwith Steve Smith were banned for a year to play for the national team by Cricket Australia. While the other accused Cameron Bancroft was handed over a nine months suspension. Warner was also barred by Cricket Australia from ever leading Australia again. Smith and Warner are also barred from playing in coming edition of IPL, they were to lead Rajasthan Royals and Sunrisers Hyderabad respectively.
“To Cricket Australia, I apologise for my actions and the effect it has had on our game under your care and control. I want you to know I fully support your review into the culture of the Australian cricket team,” he said.
Asked about a possible appeal ahead of Thursday’s deadline, Warner said: “That’s something that I will continue to sit down with my family and weigh up all my considerations before I make any decisions.”
Warner is considered to be the mastermind behind the scandal and was charged by Cricket Australia for developing the plot, asking Bancroft to use yellow sandpaper to tamper the ball.
When asked to elaborate the details of the plot, Warner said: “I am here today to accept my responsibility for my part and my involvement for what happened in Cape Town.
“We know what the consequences are when we make horrible decisions like this. It’s inexcusable, I am deeply sorry. I failed in my responsibilities as vice-captain of the Australian cricket team. I will do everything I can to earn back the respect of the Australian public. But in the coming weeks and months I am going to look at what has happened and who I am as a man,” he said.
“To be honest, I am not sure right now how I will do this, I will seek out advice and expertise to make serious changes. I want to apologise to my family, especially my wife and daughters. Your love means more than anything to me. I know I would not be anything without you. I’m very sorry for putting you through this and I promise I’ll never put you in this position again, he added..
The 31-year-old also issued apologies to the South African fans.
To South African players, administration and fans, I apologise unreservedly for my part in this and I am sorry. I brought the game into disrepute on your soil. South Africa is a fine cricketing nation and deserves better from its guests and deserves better from me.”
