Disgraced Australian cricket David Warner has spoken publicly for the first time since he was unveiled as the instigator of the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa.
The 31-year-old has been suspended by Cricket Australia (CA) for the next 12 months from all forms of the game, except for local grade cricket.
Warner also lost the vice-captaincy and CA boss James Sutherland has banned the 74-test veteran from ever being included in the national side's leadership group again.
In a post on his Instagram account, Warner said he regretted his actions during the third test in Durban.
"Mistakes have been made which have damaged cricket," he wrote.
"I apologise for my part and take responsibility for it. I understand the distress this has caused the sport and its fans. It's a stain on the game we all love and I have loved since I was a boy."
Warner, who is on his way back to Sydney on the same flight as his now former captain Steve Smith, said he will be making more comment in the coming days.
"I need to take a deep breath and spend time with my family, friends and trusted advisors," Warner wrote. "You will hear from me in a few days."
Warner is set to lose close to AU$4 million (NZ$4.26 million) in earnings from his now cancelled Indian Premier League deal and his CA contract.
Newshub.
