SYDNEY, Oct 25, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - Veteran David Warner's lifetime ban on any
leadership role within Australian cricket imposed after a 2018 ball-tampering
scandal was lifted Friday.

It follows the 37-year-old presenting his case to have the terms of the
original sanction amended before a three-person panel.

They found unanimously that Warner met all criteria to have the ban lifted
immediately, noting his "respectful and contrite tone" and that he
acknowledged responsibility for his conduct.

Warner has retired from the international game, but the decision opens the
door for a leadership role at his Big Bash League club Sydney Thunder.

"I am pleased David has chosen to have his sanction reviewed and that he will
be eligible to take up leadership positions in Australian cricket this
summer," said Cricket Australia chief Nick Hockley.

Warner was cast as the key villain in the so-called "Sandpaper-gate" scandal
in Cape Town in 2018, having conspired with then-skipper Steve Smith and
Cameron Bancroft to illegally alter the surface of the ball.

He was suspended from playing for a year and banned from any leadership role
for life.

In his application to have the ban overturned, Warner provided references
from current Australian skipper Pat Cummins and coach Andrew McDonald.

Former New Zealand captain Kane Williamson also vouched for him.