Smith back in Australia to win back trust

AFP, SYDNEY: Deposed Australia captain Steve Smith has returned home from time out overseas, saying he is prepared to win back trust after his role in a high-profile ball-tampering scandal.

Smith, who was sacked and sent home in disgrace after the third Test against South Africa, had been lying low in New York but made his first appearance on social media in a month to thank the cricket public for giving him a second chance and his family for their support.

The batsman is serving a one-year ban for his role in the scandal that also led to suspensions on vice-captain David Warner and opener Cameron Bancroft. This is Smith's first comment on his future plans since the emotional breakdown at the airport on his return from South Africa in March.

“To my Mum, Dad and Dani (his wife) you have been my rock through this and I can't thank you enough. Family is the most important thing in the world and I thank you for your love and support," Smith said.

The former skipper posted a photo of himself and fiancee Dani back in Sydney and said he wouldn't be taking his fight to earn back trust for granted.

“The amount of emails and letters I have received has been incredible and I have been extremely humbled by the enormous amount of support you have given me.

“I now have a lot to do to earn back your trust.”

Cricket Australia last month suspended Smith and team vice-captain David Warner from all international and domestic cricket for a year, while Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months.

Bancroft was caught by TV cameras trying to tamper with the ball using sandpaper, triggering a dramatic series of events that led to the banning of the three players and coach Darren Lehmann standing down from his role.

Smith was greeted back by Lehmann, who tweeted "welcome home mate".

Smith back in Australia to win back trust

AFP, SYDNEY: Deposed Australia captain Steve Smith has returned home from time out overseas, saying he is prepared to win back trust after his role in a high-profile ball-tampering scandal. Smith, who was sacked and sent home in disgrace after the third Test against South Africa, had been lying low in New York but made his first appearance on social media in a month to thank the cricket public for giving him a second chance and his family for their support. The batsman is serving a one-year ban for his role in the scandal that also led to suspensions on vice-captain David Warner and opener Cameron Bancroft. This is Smiths first comment on his future plans since the emotional breakdown at the airport on his return from South Africa in March. To my Mum, Dad and Dani (his wife) you have been my rock through this and I cant thank you enough. Family is the most important thing in the world and I thank you for your love and support, Smith said. The former skipper posted a photo of himself and fiancee Dani back in Sydney and said he wouldnt be taking his fight to earn back trust for granted. The amount of emails and letters I have received has been incredible and I have been extremely humbled by the enormous amount of support you have given me. I now have a lot to do to earn back your trust. Cricket Australia last month suspended Smith and team vice-captain David Warner from all international and domestic cricket for a year, while Cameron Bancroft was suspended for nine months. Bancroft was caught by TV cameras trying to tamper with the ball using sandpaper, triggering a dramatic series of events that led to the banning of the three players and coach Darren Lehmann standing down from his role. Smith was greeted back by Lehmann, who tweeted welcome home mate.