5 biggest cricketing controversies of 2018

#1 Ball tampering Scandal

The masterminds behind the Sandpaper gate

Australia's sloppy run of form currently can be attributed to the ball-tampering scandal which has also brought disgrace to Australian cricket. The ball-tampering scandal led to a one-year international ban for Steve Smith and David Warner and a suspension of nine-month for Cameron Bancroft.

This incident occurred during day 3 of the third Test between South Africa and Australia where Australian opener Cameron Bancroft was found using sandpaper to rub the ball. It was later known that he had used it to tamper the ball in Australia's favour and hoped to get more swing and turn in desperate need of wickets.

However, it was off to no use as Australia lost the match by 322 runs. David Warner and Steve Smith were accused of convincing Bancroft to pursue the action.

This move by Australia was heavily criticised by the fraternity and they received a lot of flak for their illegal tactics.