Cricket: Australia coach Darren Lehmann to step down after shambolic South Africa series

Australia’s head coach Darren Lehmann will step down from his role at the end of the South Africa series.

Former international Lehmann has borne a significant portion of criticism following the ball-tampering scandal which saw three players banned for up to a year.

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Although Cricket Australia found Lehmann unknowing of the events which took place at Newlands, Cape Town, the 48-year-old has announced he will step down after the final Test in Johannesburg.

“It’s the right time to step away,” Lehmann said, speaking at a press conference. “I’m ultimately responsible for the culture of the team and I’ve been thinking about my position for a while.

“Despite telling media yesterday that I’m not resigning, after reviewing Steve and Cameron’s hurting it’s only fair that I make this decision.

“This will allow Cricket Australia to complete a full review into the culture of the team and allow them to implement changes to regain the trust of the Australian public.

“This is the right thing for Australian cricket.”

Lehmann’s contract was due to run until the end of the 2019 Ashes series in England, but now he has joined the casualties of Australia’s Cape Town debacle.

Lehmann added: “Like all Australians we’re extremely disappointed and as a team we know we’ve let so many people down and for that we’re truly sorry.

“The players involved have been handed down very serious sanctions and they know they must face serious consequences.

“They’ve made a grave mistake, but they are not bad people.”

He choked back tears as he thanked his wife Andrea and four children and close friends “for allowing me to do this job and supporting me 100 per cent every step of the way”.

He added: “It’s been a wonderful experience coaching the Australian cricket team. I hope the team rebuilds from this and the Australian public find it in their hearts to forgive these young men and get behind the 11 who are going to take the field tomorrow.”