A revelation in the English media has suggested that the strapping that Australia’s David Warner uses on his hand when fielding is a tactic to change the condition of the ball.

Warner, the team’s vice-captain, was stood down from his role before the fourth day began after skipper Steve Smith had admitted that the team’s ‘leadership group’ had instructed rookie opener Cameron Bancroft to tamper with the ball.

READ MORE: Smith, Bancroft admit cheating

Smith said Saturday’s incident was the first time under his leadership that the Australian team has been involved in ball tampering, but it has been reported in England that Warner previously revealed his method of altering the ball’s condition to a band of England’s players at the completion of the Ashes.

It revolves around the strapping the 31-year-old wears on the thumb and index finger of his left hand. Abrasive substances are then attached to the tape to rough up or dull one side of the ball — a crucial factor in promoting reverse swing. Oddly, Warner removes the protective covering while batting.

During the second Test against South Africa in Port Elizabeth, Warner, who is one indiscretion away from a suspension, was seen with the same strapping on his left hand.

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