Warner and Smith have been hit with year-long suspensions, along with nine months for Bancroft. Cricket Australia ruled Smith and Bancroft had also made "misleading public comments" when on Saturday they claimed sticky tape, not sandpaper as was later revealed to be the case, was used to damage the ball. Smith has also being barred from leadership roles for two years and Warner for the rest of his career, with 100 hours of community service for all three.

The recent spate of spiteful series means cricket isn't living up to its reputation as a mild-mannered game.

Now, the ball-tampering plot that threatens to end Warner's international career and is prompting the sport to take stock and reflect.

Because it's also telling that Rabada, a 22-year-old with supreme fast-bowling talent and at the other end of his career to Warner, has already been sanctioned four times for aggressive celebrations.

"It probably gives every team a reality check," South Africa batsman Hashim Amla said. "What kind of cricket do you want to play?"

Australia coach Lehmann said in the wake of his team's cheating scandal, and during a series in which the Baggy Greens ramped up their infamous sledging (taunting): "We do respect the opposition but we push the boundaries." He added that he and the Australia team "need to change".

Now cricket needs to find a way to ditch the hostilities and still be competitive and compelling.

Associated Press