Cameron Bancroft charged over ball-tampering in South Africa-Australia third Test

Following allegations of ball tampering in the South Africa-Australia third Test, Cameron Bancroft has been charged by match officials.

Cameron Bancroft has been charged with “attempting to change the condition of the ball” following an alleged ball-tampering incident during day three of the third Test between South Africa and Australia. (SA vs AUS 3rd Test Day 3 SCORES)

Australia’s Cameron Bancroft has said he has been charged with attempted ball-tampering after being spoken to by umpires about an object in his pocket during the third Test in South Africa. (AFP)

The Australian opener appeared to rub the ball with a yellow item, which was then returned to his pocket before being dropped down the front of his trousers.

(Read | Steve Smith confesses he backed ball-tampering plan in Cape Town Test vs South Africa)

Bancroft produced a black sunglasses carrier when pressed over the incident by the umpires, appearing to imply that the case was the only item in his pocket.

Spectators speculated on social media that the item utilised and then swiftly hidden by Bancroft was sandpaper, but it was later revealed that yellow tape had been used.

(Read | AB de Villiers drives South Africa on in third Test amid Cameron Bancroft scrutiny)

It was also confirmed that the Australian team’s leadership group were aware of the indiscretion, with captain Steve Smith commenting: “I’m not proud of it.

“We spoke about it and thought it was a possible way to get an advantage.

“The coaches weren’t involved.”