Cricket Australia boss James Sutherland will not quit in wake of ball-tampering scandal
Monday 2 April 2018 12:32, UK
Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland has said he is committed to his job and will not resign in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal.
His decision comes after Darren Lehmann announced he is to step down as Australia head coach after the fourth Test against South Africa.
At a news conference in Johannesburg, Sutherland said: "I'm absolutely committed to my job. My employment and tenure is a matter for Cricket Australia but I'm not resigning.
"What's happened over last few days has only strengthened my resolve to ensure Australian cricket and the Australian cricket team gets back on track and gets back in a place where it has not only the full respect but the pride of the Australian community."
Sutherland paid tribute to Lehmann who will leave his role after nearly five years in charge having guided Australia to 2015 Cricket World Cup success and victory in the recent Ashes series against England.
Sutherland said: "I've seen at first hand the pride in which he has gone about his work, the love he has for the job and his incredible work ethic, and one of the things that strikes me about Darren and his character as a coach is the way he genuinely cares for and loves his players. I have huge regard and respect for the way he's gone about his job.
"It's been clearly a difficult week for him, the players and for everyone involved in the Australian cricket team and Australian cricket more broadly."
The ball-tampering scandal has resulted in Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft receiving lengthy bans from international and domestic state cricket but Sutherland admits the trio will be offered support from Cricket Australia.
"Our hearts are out to him and the other two players," he said. "Right now, we want to support them to the best of their abilities.
"They have made mistakes that have been major significant consequences, life-changing mistakes.
"At the same time we should support them and allow them to rehabilitate and get back to playing the game they love."
