REVERED former Australian skipper Steve Waugh says those Aussie Test players who knew or took part in the ball-tampering antics in Cape Town have failed the baggy green.

He penned a strong statment on his Facebook page in which he lamented the actions of the guilty who have cast a pall over Australian sport and rocked cricket to its very core.

Steve Waugh has come out with a strongly worded statement. Source: News Corp Australia

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Waugh famously began the tradition of his players wearing the baggy green in the first session of Tests, and he also helped to modify the MCC’s spirit of cricket document in 2003.

Here is what he wrote on his Facebook page:

“Like many I’m deeply troubled by the events in Cape Town this last week, and acknowledge the thousands of messages I have received, mostly from heartbroken cricket followers worldwide.

“The Australian Cricket team has always believed it could win in any situation against any opposition, by playing combative, skilful and fair cricket, driven by our pride in the fabled Baggy Green.

“I have no doubt the current Australian team continues to believe in this mantra, however some have now failed our culture, making a serious error of judgement in the Cape Town Test Match.

“In 2003, we modified the Spirit of Cricket document originally created by the M.C.C., to empower our players to set their own standards and commit to play the Australian way.

“We must urgently revisit this document, re-bind our players to it and ensure the Spirit in which we play is safe-guarded for the future of the sport, and to continue to inspire the dreams of every young kid picking up a bat and ball and for every fan who lives and breathes the game.

“A focused and balanced perspective is needed in the condemnation on those involved in this, with a clear and critical consideration to the social impact and mental health of all players.

I will support all positive action to ensure an outcome for the betterment of the game, regaining the trust and faith of every fan of cricket.”

Steve Waugh