Australia suspend Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft for their involvement in ball-tampering incident in South Africa

Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft have been suspended by Cricket Australia for the fourth Test in Johannesburg for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal.

After a thorough investigation, all three players were found guilty of breaching article 2.3.5 of Cricket Australia’s Code of Conduct and will fly home from South Africa on Thursday.  

Smith has also been stripped of the captaincy for at least the final Test in South Africa, with Tim Paine endorsed by the board as his successor and Australia's 46th Test captain after he acted in the role on day four in Cape Town.

Cricket Australia chief executive James Sutherland said: "No other players or support staff had prior knowledge and this includes Darren Lehmann, who despite inaccurate media reports has not resigned from his position.

"He will continue to coach the Australia men's team under his current contract.

"Once the investigation has concluded in the next 24 hours sanctions will be announced. All three players who have been reported will leave South Africa tomorrow.

"Tim Paine has been officially appointed captain of the Australian men's Test team."

Cricket Australia chairman David Peever said in a statement: "We understand and share the anger of fans and the broader Australian community about the events that unfolded in Cape Town on Saturday.

"This issue goes beyond the technical nature of the offences and various codes of conduct. It is about the integrity and reputation of Australian Cricket and Australian sport.

"Ultimately, it is about whether Australians can feel proud of their national sporting teams.

"That depends as much on the way the players conduct themselves, as it does about winning or losing. It is about how we play the game."