Former Australia coach criticizes England fans over Steve Smith abuse

Former Australia coach criticizes England fans over Steve Smith abuse

Former Australia coach Darren Lehmann has called on England fans to "be better" than the persistent abuse directed at batter Steve Smith, stemming from the 2018 ball-tampering scandal. Smith, now 36, has faced chants and boos during matches, including 38 appearances against England where he scored 3,436 runs.

The 2018 scandal and its aftermath

Smith was stripped of the captaincy and banned for a year after admitting that Australia's "leadership group" orchestrated a plan to tamper with the ball during a Test against South Africa. Teammate David Warner instructed Cameron Bancroft to use sandpaper, which was captured on camera. Both Warner and Bancroft also received bans.

Lehmann, cleared of wrongdoing, resigned as coach in the scandal's fallout. He described the ongoing abuse as "unbelievable," noting that Smith endures it daily. "In England, they just don't forget," Lehmann said, adding that the hostility often comes from fans who "drink too much and carry on like pork chops."

Smith's return and fan reaction

Smith returned to Test cricket during the 2019 Ashes at Edgbaston but has since been a frequent target of jeers, including taunts referencing his emotional 2018 press conference. Lehmann acknowledged the wrongdoing but urged fans to move on, praising Smith's resilience. "Steve can hold his head high with how he handles everything," he said.

Lehmann's call for change

The former coach specifically addressed England's Barmy Army fan group, stating, "They should be better than that." While he recognized that most supporters are respectful, he criticized the persistent hostility toward Smith. "We did the wrong thing, accept it and move on," Lehmann said. "You get reminded every day, and that's part and parcel."