Lehmann Criticises England Fans for Abuse Directed at Smith

English supporters ought to improve than the jeers they aim at Australia batsman Smith, remarks former manager Darren Lehmann.

Steve Smith, 36 years old, has been a regular focus of shouts and taunts from English supporters following his participation in the 2018's ball-tampering incident.

He was removed as captain and banned for a 12 months while Lehmann, who was found not guilty of wrongdoing, resigned as manager following the episode.

"The abuse you receive is constant," Darren Lehmann stated. "It is astonishing."

"He is performing every day. It's likely worse for him."

"In England they just don't forget. It seems they have never made a mistake in their existence."

"It is only the people that overindulge and behave like fools."

History of the Ball-Tampering Episode

During a Test match versus South Africa, Smith confessed Australia's "team leadership" formulated a plan to tamper with the cricket ball.

Ex- opening batsman Warner showed batsman Cameron Bancroft how to utilize abrasive material to scuff up the ball, and Bancroft was then spotted doing so by television cameras in the middle of play. Both men were also banned along with Smith.

Aftermath and Ongoing Response

Smith made his comeback after the ball-tampering episode in the 2019's Ashes series match at Edgbaston and has been booed consistently ever since.

English fans also base chants on his tearful news conference in 2018.

"We committed the mistake, acknowledge it and move on," Lehmann said.

"We attempt to advance the to the fullest. You get recalled constantly and that is part and parcel."

"He can hold his head high with how he deals with all of it."

"The English fans ought to be more respectful than that. The majority act that way and are largely positive of the events in the game."