Australia batsman David Warner supports the ball-tampering charges against Faf du Plessis. 

The Proteas skipper pleaded not guilty on counts of ball-tampering after footage was released of the 32-year-old illegally shining the ball with a sweet in his mouth.

With an eye on the third Test, Du Plessis will look to clear his name at the ICC hearing which will take place later today.

Despite Cricket Australia keeping their distance regarding the situation, Australia vice-captain David Warner emphasised the importance of obeying the rules.

‘The rules are in place for a reason – if you’re not going to use them why bother having them?’ Warner said.

‘That’s the fortunate thing these days. They’ve got their rules and they’ll stand by these decisions. I think that’s a good thing.

‘We’ve all been on the back end of them from time to time. Now they’re cracking down on it, with the points system, we as players know the guidelines now.

‘If you’re going to overstep that mark and you get fined be prepared to miss Test matches as well.’

The 30-year-old admitted that his side was outplayed by the Proteas but does not agree with the way they have reacted to the allegations once the news broke last week.

‘I know from an Australian cricket perspective we hold our heads high. I’d be very disappointed if one of our team members did that and how they were reacting,’ Warner said.

Du Plessis can be fined 50 to 100 per cent of his match fee and/or handed two suspension points and four demerit points.

Two suspension points warrants a suspension of one Test, as does four demerit points but the bans can be served concurrently.