On a farm in South Africa, two of Australia’s greatest bowlers smile proudly with two young children next to a bloodied animal carcass.

Fast bowler Glenn McGrath’s hand rests on the shoulder of one of the youngsters, who cradles the head of the gutted deer.

Fellow national cricketer Brett Lee reclines on the animal’s flank, his arm also around a child.

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This is the latest photo of Australian sportsmen to spark outrage against South African animal hunting.

McGrath had already issued a public apology on Saturday for killing endangered animals, including a large male elephant, after attracting a barrage of criticism on social media.

The president of the McGrath Foundation breast cancer charity said he regretted taking part in the 2008 hunt after the death of his wife.

“I participated in a hunting safari in Zimbabwe that was licenced and legal but in hindsight highly inappropriate,” he said on Twitter.

“It was an extremely difficult time in my life and looking back I deeply regret being involved.”

It is unclear if the photo of McGrath and Lee was from the same, or another, hunting trip.

Mr Lee is yet to respond, but a spokesperson for the recently retired fast bowler told the Daily Mail Australia, which revealed the photos, the photo was taken on a farm in South Africa.

On February 19, the McGrath Foundation announced it was suspending its relationship with Greyhound Racing Victoria amid the fallout from the live baiting scandal.

Much of the backlash has been aired on social media platform Twitter.

“Teaching the next generation to be heartless men,” wrote one user.

“Brett Lee and Glenn McGrath smiling assassins. Shame on you. Lowest of the low,” wrote another.

The hunters have been defended by NSW Christian Democrat Fred Nile, who dismissed the negative online comments.

The men are “absolute Aussie legends” said the politician.

“Faux twitter rage cannot tarnish them or their legacy. Happy Hunting,” Mr Nile wrote.