Ball-tampering blights SA’s ascent to No. 1

Sunday Times

TELFORD VICE, Galle

Vernon Philander’s conviction for ball-tampering raises the spectre of SA having used illegal tactics to become the No. 1 ranked test team.

In particular, the integrity of performances by Dale Steyn, the world’s top bowler, could be questioned.

SA, who were test cricket’s leading team from August, 2012 to May, 2013, have been accused of the offence three times – albeit once by their opponents – in the last eight months, and been found guilty twice.

How many other t...