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 rocked the world last week during the third Test against South Africa at Cape Town. "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. "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," he added.
Many cricket fans were baffled after David Warner's statement in the press conference. Warner, one of Australia's premier player can come back legally after an year. Is there more to the story than what has been disclosed so far. Eminent commentator Harsha Bhogle, too raised the question on Twitter.
Bhogle said on Twitter, " If David Warner is resigned to the fact that he may never play for Australia again, has he, in effect, been given a lifetime ban? If it is indeed so, there is a story I am waiting to hear because that can't be about this incident alone." There have been reports in the Western press about Warner's boorish behaviour which has not only irked opponents but have also not gone down well with his teammates. Some reports claim that many Aussie cricketers don't want him in the team. Also as the likes of Ian Chappell and Gautam Gambhir, have indicated, Warner may be a target for his vocal role during the pay dispute with Cricket Australia. So any possible 'life ban' on Warner is likely to be culmination of many events and not only of the infamous ball-tampering saga. Whether the full story will ever come in the open is anyone's guess.
Warner along with his captain Steve Smith were banned for a year by Cricket Australia, while opener Cameron Bancroft was handed a nine month suspension for his role in the scandal. Warner was also barred by Cricket Australia from ever leading Australia again. 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 said. 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." Warner's comments comes after tearful apologies from Smith and Bancroft, who said he would appeal against the nine-month ban.
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. "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." His wife Candice, who had accompanied him to the press conference, also sobbed during the 10-minute interaction as she watched him from the media seats. 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, Warner said.
With PTI inputs
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