Darren Lehmann Condemns England Supporters for Taunts Targeting Steve Smith
Smith has featured in 38 matches against England and notched over 3,400 runs.
England fans should be better than the jeers they direct at Australia batsman Steve Smith, states ex- manager Lehmann.
Smith, 36, has been a frequent recipient of chants and jeers from England supporters after his role in the 2018's ball-tampering incident.
He was sacked as leader and banned for a full year while Darren Lehmann, who was found not guilty of any misconduct, stepped down as coach in the wake of the incident.
"The abuse you face is every day," Darren Lehmann stated. "This is unbelievable."
"Smith is performing every day. It's likely more difficult for him."
"Among English crowds they just never forget. It's as if they have never made a mistake in their existence."
"It's mainly the individuals that drink too much and carry on like fools."
Context of the Ball-Tampering Scandal
In a Test match against the Proteas, Steve Smith acknowledged the Australian "team leadership" formulated a strategy to interfere with the ball.
Ex- opening batsman Warner taught batter Bancroft how to employ abrasive material to rough up the ball, and he was then spotted in the act by television cameras during the match. Both men were also penalized together with Steve Smith.
Consequences and Continued Reaction
Steve Smith came back following the ball-altering incident in the 2019 Ashes Test at Edgbaston and has been booed repeatedly since.
England fans also base chants on his upsetting news conference in 2018.
"We committed the error, admit it and move on," Darren Lehmann said.
"We attempt to advance the as well as possible. You get reminded constantly and that is part and parcel."
"Smith can be proud with how he handles all of it."
"The Barmy Army need to be more respectful than that. Most of them act that way and are quite encouraging of the proceedings in the cricket."