Steve Smith in Vodafone's New Ad Campaign 'Gutsy is Calling', Telecom Operator Defends Banned Aussie Captain After Facing Social Media Backlash! (Watch Video)

Steve Smith was handed a 12-month ban by Cricket Australia for his involvement in the ball-tampering scandal during the Australia vs South Africa Test series, earlier this year. Recently, Steve Smith featured in an advertisement by Vodafone, one of the sponsors of Big Bash League (BBL) 2018-19. However, the one-minute-video was lambasted on social media.

Vodafone’s latest campaign – Gutsy is calling – was critiqued by angry Australian fans on social media, as soon as it surfaced online. The campaign shows Steve Smith confessing his role in the ball-tampering incident that took place during the third Test match against South Africa in Newlands. Bangladesh Premier League 2018-19: Steve Smith Uncertain to Make Debut in BPL for Comilla Victorians Team.

The ad begins with Steve Smith admitting his actions in the disgraceful ball-tampering episode. However, the Aussie also talks about several aspects of mental health and the toughness that a player goes through in his career.

Watch Video: ‘Gutsy is Calling’ advertisement by Vodafone, ft. Steve Smith

The irked fans ridiculed the telecom operator and the disgraced cricketer on micro-blogging site Twitter. However, Vodafone was quick to respond in Steve Smith’s and their defence.

Here’s what Vodafone said in defence of their ‘Gutsy is Calling’ video and Steve Smith:

Recently, Steve Smith was barred from participating in the upcoming Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) citing some by-law violations. The former Australia captain is set for a press conference on December 21 at Sydney Cricket Ground. It will be his first media interaction after his tearful apology in March, admitting his role in the ball-tampering fiasco.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 20, 2018 07:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).