Graeme Smith breaks silence over Aussie scandal

Martin Bester exclusively spoke to former Proteas captain Graeme Smith about the Australian scandal that rocked the game of cricket on Saturday.

The furore stemmed from Cameron Bancroft's actions of trying to alter the state of the ball being used during the third Test between South Africa and Australia in Cape Town on Saturday. His actions were caught on camera, and he later admitted to 'cheating' in the press conference following the day's play. Aussie captain Steve Smith also admitted to being in the wrong, as it was his idea to try and gain an advantage by tampering with the ball.

According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Australia's stand-in captain Tim Paine revealed disgraced captain Smith and batsman Bancroft were both going through emotional turmoil following a "strange, horrible 24 hours".

READ ALSO: Smith braced for make-or-break week after ball-tampering scandal

Smith is facing a career-defining week after admitting to being the mastermind of the ball-tampering scandal. As things stand, Smith will miss the final Test against South Africa, but more punishment could follow. Many are calling for a lifetime ban.

In terms of Bancroft's punishment, he got off lightly with three demerit points and a fine. Fans seem content with this punishment, though, as they feel he was forced into his actions by the senior members of the team.

So what does a former pro think about all this? Graeme Smith exclusively weighed in on the situation - and he was not holding anything back:

Former Springbok rugby star Breyton Paulse also added his two cents on Breakfast with Martin Bester this morning:

What are your thoughts on the scandal? Should Smith face a harsher punishment? What of Bancroft? Let us know below.