Former Australia captain Steve Smith broke down in tears as he apologized for his part in the ball-tampering scandal.
Smith and batsmen David Warner and Cameron Bancroft have been banned by Cricket Australia for the incident in the third Test against South Africa.
"It was a failure of my leadership," said the 28-year-old at a news conference in Sydney.
Bancroft and Warner have also apologized for their actions.
Smith added: "I am deeply sorry, I love the game of cricket, I love kids wanting to play the great game of cricket that I love.
"Any time you think about making a questionable decision, think about affecting your parents.
"To see the way my old man has been, and my mum, it hurts. I just want to say I'm sorry for the pain I have brought to Australia and the fans and the public." APP/AFP