Faf du Plessis Reveals Support Message to Steve Smith

ISLAMABAD: (Sports Desk) – Former South African captain Faf du Plessis has revealed that he reached out to Australian star Steve Smith with a message of encouragement following the 2018 ball-tampering scandal during the Cape Town Test.

Speaking on ESPNcricinfo’s video series Cricketers on Cricketers, Du Plessis said the controversy surrounding Smith reminded him of the difficult period he experienced in 2016, when he faced criticism over an incident involving the alteration of the ball’s condition during the Hobart Test.

Du Plessis recalled that when Smith accepted responsibility for the Cape Town controversy at a press conference, he realised the Australian captain was facing enormous pressure. Wanting to offer support, the former South African skipper sent Smith a message urging him to remain strong during the challenging period.

Du Plessis also remembered Smith’s support during his own controversy in 2016. Rather than taking a harsh position against the South African captain, Smith had defended him, earning respect from members of the South African team.

The former Proteas captain’s gesture reflected the mutual respect between the two cricketers, despite their competitive rivalry on the international stage.

The 2018 Cape Town scandal had major consequences for Smith, who was stripped of Australia’s captaincy and handed a 12-month suspension by Cricket Australia. The controversy also involved Australian players Cameron Bancroft and David Warner, who received sanctions for their roles in the incident.