Winning at all costs is just that, isn't it?

Australia's test-cricket coach is the newest casualty in the ever-expanding tampergate scandal, which has already claimed the captaincy of Steve Smith and according to Jim Maxwell, could still claim the international career of David Warner.

Lehmann officially announced his resignation in the wake of the ball-tampering scandal against South Africa, which drew severe criticism both within Australia and worldwide.

In a press conference the day after saying he wouldn't resign, Lehmann said Steve Smith's teary apology had changed his mind. 

Australia eventually lost the third-test, with a fourth match to play tonight - captainless, starless and now coachless.

The entire series has been overshadowed by Cameron Bancroft getting caught by South African broadcaster, SuperSport, tampering the ball with an item hidden in his pocket, later revealed to be sandpaper.

While Cricket Australia originally denounced the reports as "speculation", the loss of Lehmann has further plunged Australian test cricket into disarray.

Making matters worse, Lehmann's predecessor, Mickey Arthur, was sacked in 2013 under a similar cloud of controversy. That time, it was 'homeworkgate' - a loss of faith between Australia's cricketers and their coach. 

This time, things are a little more serious and Australian cricket's reputation is in tatters. 

There are few outstanding candidates to replace the long-serving coach and further action against Smith, Cameron Bancroft and David Warner seems likely. At the time of writing, former test-opener Justin Langer appears favourite to replace the embattled coach. 

Only one thing is for certain in Australian crickets darkest hour. This saga's far from over yet.