“Accountable” Cameron Bancroft wants to move on from sandpapergate scandal

After Cricket Australia’s ban on the tainted trio ended, the integration of the Australian unit has started by the team management and even the duo of Steve Smith and David Warner met the team in Dubai. This has been a crucial development ever since the reports of players’ discontent with Warner came out in Australian media, but if one player has slipped under the radar yet gearing himself for a spot for the Ashes, it has to be Bancroft. 

A satisfying return to top-level cricket through Big Bash League has given Bancroft a perspective in life, and he is not moving away from his ambition just yet. While taking the onus on his shoulders for the sandpapergate incident, Bancroft has stated that the incident helped him grow as a person.

“We all make mistakes and I guess it’s how you’re able to grow as a person, in admitting and being honest with yourself about those mistakes,” Bancroft was quoted as saying by The Field.

“I certainly have been and, as a person, that’s something that I’m completely accountable for and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

While Steve Smith and David Warner’s Ashes return are almost certain, Bancroft is still not in contention for the spot. Bancroft continues to be optimmistic and hopes his county campaign with Durham, where he has been appointed as the skipper, can pave the way for a spot in the summer’s marquee competition.

“The aspiration to play Test cricket is certainly in my mind and where I’d love to be one day. But I also can’t be there. I’m here right now. Playing for Australia would mean a lot to me, definitely. But I also know that I’ve got a lot of great things in my life,” Bancroft concluded.