Footage has emerged of South African captain Faf du Plessis shining the ball during the second test flogging of Australia in Hobart with a lolly in his mouth. No action was taken against England 11 years ago, however law 42.3 of the MCC cricket laws state that a fielder may polish a ball, "provided that no artificial substance is used". Australia were humiliated by an innings and 80 runs in the second test. Smith's words have heaped more pressure on embattled Chairman of Selectors Rod Marsh, with calls for him to be dumped by Cricket Australia growing louder. West Indies legend Brian Lara added his voice to the mix, saying Australian cricket was heading the same way the Windies empire did in the mid-90s and no-one feared Smith's men anymore.

Source: New Zealand Herald November 16, 2016 01:08 UTC