Unholy trinity: Smith, Warner, Bancroft sent back home

The embattled trio of Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft will be sent home tomorrow, Cricket Australia announced here today in the wake of the premedicated ball-tampering conspiracy that has taken the cricket world by storm.

CA CEO James Sutherland said Matthew Renshaw, Joe Burns and Glenn Maxwell will replace the three players charged in the Test squad, with Tim Paine officially named captain for the fourth Test.

"All three players that have been reported will leave tomorrow. Renshaw, Maxwell and Burns will arrive in South africa in the next 24 hours," Sutherland announced at a packed media conference.

Coach Darren Lehmann will continue in the position as he had no knowledge according to CA's preliminary inquiry.

"Contrary to reports Darren has not resigned, he had no prior knowledge," said Sutherland.

He added, "We are contemplating significant sanctions in each case of the three players. These sanctions will reflect the gravity of what occurred and the damage it has done Australian cricket. Urgency must be balanced with due process."