Darren Lehmann Slams England Supporters for Taunts Aimed at Smith
Steve Smith has featured in 38 times facing England and accumulated over 3,400 runs.
English fans ought to improve compared to the jeers they aim at Australian batter Steve Smith, says ex- manager Lehmann.
Smith, 36 years old, has become a regular recipient of songs and taunts from England fans following his role in the 2018 ball-tampering incident.
He was sacked as captain and suspended for a 12 months while Darren Lehmann, who was exonerated of any offense, quit as coach following the event.
"The abuse you face is constant," Darren Lehmann said. "This is unbelievable."
"He is performing every day. It's likely more difficult for him."
"Among English crowds they just never forget. It seems they have not once committed an error in their existence."
"It's mainly the individuals that consume excess alcohol and behave like pork chops."
Background of the Ball-Tampering Scandal
In a Test match against South Africa, Smith acknowledged Australia's "leadership group" formulated a strategy to interfere with the cricket ball.
Former opening batsman David Warner showed batter Bancroft how to utilize abrasive material to scuff up the cricket ball, and he was then caught in the act by TV cameras during play. The two players were also penalized along with Steve Smith.
Consequences and Ongoing Response
Steve Smith made his comeback following the ball-altering episode in the 2019's Ashes Test at Edgbaston and has been booed repeatedly since.
England supporters also center chants on his emotional press conference in 2018.
"We made the wrong thing, admit it and get past it," Darren Lehmann stated.
"You try to advance the best you can. You get recalled every day and this is part and parcel."
"He can walk tall with how he deals with everything."
"The English fans ought to be better than that. Most of them act that way and are very supportive of the proceedings in the game."
