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Ball-Tampering Scandal

David Peever resigns in the wake of Longstaff Review findings

by Wisden Staff 1 minute read

Cricket Australia chairman David Peever has announced his resignation in the wake of the findings of the cultural review, which was sanctioned by the board.

According to the review, the board was guilty of harbouring a culture of ‘winning without counting the costs’, which, it was suggested, played a role in the ball-tampering fiasco during Australia’s 2018 tour of South Africa.

Captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner were slapped with 12-month suspensions, while Cameron Bancroft, who was caught on camera trying to use a piece of sandpaper on the ball, was handed a nine-month suspension in the aftermath of that episode.

Soon after, Cricket Australia had sanctioned an independent cultural review to investigate the reasons that led to the episode, and as per the report, the board had to share in the blame as well.

Peever’s resignation comes in that backdrop. Meanwhile, Earl Eddings has been appointed as the interim chairman, and according to a statement released by Cricket Australia, the body will “undertake the necessary process to make a permanent appointment”.

Eddings thanked Peever for his services to the board and the game in the country. “He has played a pivotal role in the elevation of women’s cricket, and the significant growth in attendance and participation,” said Eddings.

“He should also be acknowledged for his efforts in improving funding to the ICC full member nations outside Australia, England and India; overhauling governance of the ICC and reforming the Future Tours program, among a long list of achievements.

“We look forward to continuing the important process of recovering and rebuilding for Cricket Australia and Australian Cricket.

“The Board is keenly aware that we have a way to go to earn back the trust of the cricket community. We and the executive team are determined to make cricket stronger.”

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