Mint-gate: CSA to provide Faf with legal support

Cape Town - Cricket South Africa (CSA) will aid stand-in Proteas captain, Faf du Plessis after he was charged by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Du Plessis was charged with 'changing the condition of the ball' in the second Test against Australia in Hobart.

Cameras caught Du Plessis suspiciously shining the ball using what has now been termed 'mint saliva'. Du Plessis was seen rubbing his finger onto a mint in his mouth and then shining the ball repeatedly. 

CSA released a press release on Friday afternoon in which they stated that Du Plessis would receive support, which included legal representation as he defends himself against the charges laid against him by world cricket's governing body.

“We have asked the ICC to consider the time needed for us to consult and appoint legal representation and make the necessary logistical arrangements when setting a date for the hearing,” said CSA CEO Haroon Lorgat.

“We are now waiting on the ICC to inform us of the date for the hearing," he added.

The matter will be heard by Andy Pycroft of the Elite Panel of ICC Match Referees while details of the hearing have yet to be announced.

Cricket South Africa statement:

"Cricket South Africa (CSA) is fully cognizant of the charge brought against its acting national captain, Mr. Faf du Plessis, by the International Cricket Council (ICC) in terms of article 2.2.9 of its Code of Conduct.

CSA will be providing the necessary support, including legal representation, to aid Mr du Plessis to defend the charge made against him.

“We have asked the ICC to consider the time needed for us to consult and appoint legal representation and make the necessary logistical arrangements when setting a date for the hearing,” commented CSA CEO Haroon Lorgat. “We are now waiting on the ICC to inform us of the date for the hearing.”

As the matter is subject to a hearing, CSA will make no further comment at this stage."