XtraTime Web Desk: Former Australian captain Steve Smith has confirmed that he will continue to serve the 12 month imposed on him by Cricket Australia. Smith has been suspended from playing any international and Australian domestic cricket for the next 12 months, following his role in the ball tampering controversy that rocked the cricket world during the third test match against South Africa in Cape Town. Smith is also banned from holding any leadership position within the national side for a further 12 months after his playing ban elapses. The tainted former Australian skipper took to twitter on Wednesday afternoon to make the announcement. Smith tweeted:
Meanwhile, Aussie opener David Warner and Cameron Bancroft are yet to decide whether they would challenge the sanctions. Warner has had a lifetime leadership ban imposed on him to go with his 12-month playing ban, and Cameron Bancroft is serving a nine-month suspension from Cricket Australia.
Cricket Australia has confirmed hearings over the level-three charges and/or sanctions issued to Smith, Warner and Bancroft would take place – if needed – on Wednesday.
All three have sought legal advice on whether to challenge their bans and Warner in particular is understood to be particularly keen to put his case to an independent code-of-conduct commissioner.