Australian star batsman Steve Smith in a recent interview opened up about his life post the ball-tampering scandal. He says he will ignore all kinds of sledging if received as he travels to South Africa for the first time since the scandal.
The duo, Steve Smith and David Warner who is a part of Australia’s squads for three ODIs and three T20Is were banned for a year due to a ball-tampering case in the 2018 Cape Town Test, and Cameron Bancroft receiving a nine-month suspension.
Smith exclaimed that the South African supporters have been “lovely” so far,
“Everywhere I have been the people have been lovely. Guys have come up and taken some photos and been really nice,” said Smith.
“It’s been normal, the same as compared to when I’ve been here previously. It’s a terrific place to tour and I’m glad to be back.
“I think they’re hostile here at the best of times,” Smith said of South African crowds.
“It doesn’t bother me too much. [Australia coach] Justin [Langer] said the other day that we had the dress rehearsal in England. There was a fair bit going on there.
“I don’t notice it, particularly when I’m batting. Maybe a little bit when I’m fielding, but then again, it’s just words, it doesn’t affect me. I block it all out.”
Recollecting the ball-tampering incident he said, “The last time I was here things didn’t end overly well, but I’ve also got really fond memories of playing here.
“Just walking into the hotel, initially I was like, ‘the last time I left here it wasn’t pretty’. It wasn’t the best time of my life. But I’ve moved on from that and learned a lot.
“I’ve been back playing for a year now. I’m really enjoying it and I feel like I’m playing well. I’m in a nice place.”
