Social media reactions to Steve Smith and Cameron Bancroft's moving press conferences

The Australian public have thrown support behind Steve Smith following his tearful and apologetic press conference in the aftermath of the ball-tampering saga. 

Smith was met by a huge media pack as he arrived back in Sydney on Thursday night. Attempting to read a prepared statement and answer questions from reporters for the first time since receiving a 12-month suspension from international and domestic cricket, the former Australian skipper was visibly distraught.

"I know I will regret this for the rest of my life. I am absolutely gutted," he said.

"I hope in time I can earn back respect and forgiveness. I've been so privileged and honoured to represent my country and captain the Australian cricket team. 

"Cricket is the greatest game in the world, it's been my life and I hope it can be [in my life] again."

On social media, cricket and sports stars from around the world rallied behind the under-fire star batsman.

People online were moved by Smith's reaction and plea for forgiveness after a Cricket Australia investigation found him in breach of their Code of Conduct.

Smith burst into tears when he brought up his dad, who was standing beside him with his hand on his shoulder.

"Anytime you think about making a questionable decision, think about who you're affecting. To see the way my old man has been, and my mum, it hurts," Smith said.

"I've made a big mistake by allowing this to happen. It was a huge error of judgement on my behalf and I'm deeply sorry."

Even some of the nation's politicians had their say after watching the press conference.

Earlier Cameron Bancroft also held a press conference upon arriving back to his home state in Western Australia.

He was similarly remorseful for what had happened at Cape Town during the third Test against South Africa. 

"Not a second has gone by since Saturday evening where I haven't wished to turn back time and do the right thing during the lunch break," Bancroft said.

"It is something I will regret for the rest of my life. All I can do in the short term is ask for forgiveness. I hope you can find it in your hearts to allow me to progress on that journey."

And it seems the public are also willing to forgive Bancroft too.