Cricket Australia boss James Sutherland calls Virat Kohli's allegations ‘outrageous’

Cricket Australia chief executive, James Sutherland, has jumped on Virat Kohli, calling his allegations “outrageous”. Sutherland spoke strongly in defence of Smith after coach Darren Lehmann had also denied any orchestrated use of Smith viewing the dressing room area for help on decisions.

“I find the allegations questioning the integrity of Steve Smith, the Australian team and the dressing room, outrageous,” Sutherland said. “Steve is an outstanding cricketer and person, and role model to many aspiring cricketers and we have every faith that there was no ill-intent in his actions.”

“We reject any commentary that suggests our integrity was brought into disrepute or that systemic unfair tactics are used, and stand by Steve and the Australian cricketers who are proudly representing our country.”

Kohli had stated after the Test’s conclusion that he had seen the Australians looking towards their dressing room twice earlier in the match when he was batting and had noticed about it to both on-field umpires. When Handscomb and Smith tethered, the umpire Nigel Llong stepped in quickly to stop any communication from taking place.

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Earlier today, however, Handscomb admitted to a bit of foul-play, but said he wasn’t aware of the rules and regulations. “I referred smudga to look at the box… my fault and was unaware of the rule. Shouldn’t take anything away from what was an amazing game!” Handscomb tweeted.

Former Australia captain Michael Clarke also said that it was Handscomb who suggested Smith to turn around while making it clear that he finds this move “unacceptable”. “I want to find out from the Australian team if they’re using the DRS in that way. If they are then that is unacceptable,” Clarke told India Today.

It seems like the Australian contingent may soon be divided into two halves due to the difference in opinion.