In a development blockbuster, Tim Paine has resigned as Australia’s test captain, and the 36-year-old goalkeeper batsman announced the decision at a press conference in Hobart. The media said on Friday that Paine had been investigated by the regulatory agency Cricket Australia for sending a series of obscene text messages and an inappropriate photo to a female colleague in 2017.

“Today, I announced my decision to resign as the captain of the Australian men’s test team. It was a very difficult decision, but it was the right decision for me, my family and cricket,” Paine said emotionally while reading. Prepared statement. “As the background of my decision, about four years ago, I participated in a text exchange with my colleagues at the time.

At that time, the exchange was the subject of a thorough investigation by the CA Integrity Unit, and I was fully involved and publicly involved in the whole process. “That investigation and the Cricket Tasmania HR investigation conducted at the same time found that there was no violation of the Australian Cricket Code of Conduct. Although I was exempted, I deeply regretted the matter at the time, and it is still the case today. My wife and I talked to Family, thank them very much for their forgiveness and support.

We think this matter is over and I can fully focus on the team as I have done for the past three or four years.” However, I have recently become aware of this kind of private The text exchange will be made public. In retrospect, my behavior in 2017 did not meet the standards of an Australian cricket team leader or the wider community. I apologize for the harm and pain caused to my wife, my family and the other party. I apologize for any damage to the reputation of our sport. “And I believe that for me, resigning as captain is the right decision, effective immediately.

I don’t want this to become an unwelcome distraction to the team before the huge Ashes series. “I really like my role as the captain of the Australian cricket team. Leading the Australian men’s test team is the greatest honor in my sports career. I thank my teammates for their support and I am proud of our ability to achieve together. “For them, I ask for their understanding and forgiveness. For Australian cricket fans, I am deeply sorry that my past actions have affected our game on the eve of the Ashes.

I apologize for the disappointment I caused to the fans and the entire cricket community. . “I am fortunate to have a beautiful, loving and supportive family. Knowing how much I let them down breaks my heart. They have always supported me and are my most loyal fans. I am grateful for their support. I will continue to be a loyal member of the Australian cricket team and look forward to a grand tour of the ashes. “

News Source : Hindustan Times