So this is what happened: South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has been charged for breaching Article 2.2.9 of the ICC Code of Conduct after television footage appeared to show him applying an artificial substance to the ball during the fourth day’s play in the second Test in Hobart, which concluded on Tuesday – and which, South Africa won.
You can see the video footage here
The charge relates to changing the condition of the ball in breach of Law 42.3 and has been laid by the ICC Chief Executive David Richardson who has exercised his right to do so according to Article 3.1.3 of the Code.
But Du Plessis’s teammates have stood by him:
South Africans standing shoulder to shoulder in defense of Faf du Plessis. Clearly upset by allegations. #ausvsa pic.twitter.com/J4TBdTKsiQ
— Melinda Farrell (@melindafarrell) November 18, 2016
Not just on it, but even off it… like this Dale Steyn tweet, which completely demolished Australia and how they’re perceived as a strong team:
Beaten with the bat.
Beaten with the ball.Beaten in the field.Mentally stronger.Here’s a idea, Let’s blame it on a lollipop 🍭 #soft— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) November 18, 2016
Du Plessis has pleaded not guilty to the charge – and now it’s over to the investigators.
