The Australian cricket team is set to face renewed scrutiny over the infamous 'Sandpapergate' incident during their multi-format tour of South Africa, which begins with a three-match ODI series in Durban on Thursday. Former South African captain Graeme Smith believes the controversy, which occurred during a Test series in 2018, remains part of Australia's story and they should expect questions from both the media and supporters.
The 'Sandpapergate' incident involved Cameron Bancroft being caught on camera using a foreign object to alter the ball during the third Test at Newlands, bringing an explosive conclusion to an already fractious contest between the two sides. The scandal resulted in 12-month bans for captain Steve Smith and David Warner, while Bancroft was suspended for nine months. Coach Darren Lehmann also resigned in the aftermath as Australian cricket dealt with the fallout.
Smith, who was in the commentary box when the incident unfolded, believes Australia must manage the issue instead of letting it overshadow matters on the field. He thinks the team should prepare for intense media scrutiny and public attention, just as any other team would expect when touring a rival nation. Smith notes that it's part of touring and something Australia can't shy away from.
Despite the challenges, Smith has high regard for the Australian team, cautioning against underestimating them based on recent setbacks. He notes that Australia has had a lot of success over the last couple of years, including winning the Ashes. Smith also highlights South Africa's own strengths, particularly their recent World Test Championship final victory against Australia.
However, Smith identifies the batting department as an area of concern for South Africa ahead of the Tests. He notes that the team still doesn't have a batter averaging in the 40s in Test cricket, which he considers unusual. The current crop of Proteas batters has shown promise, with Temba Bavuma, Ryan Rickelton, David Bedingham, Aiden Markram, and Tristan Stubbs leading the way.
Australia, meanwhile, has experienced its own recent setback against Bangladesh, but Smith advises against reading too much into that result. He believes the Australian team will bounce back and compete strongly in the series. The Proteas, under Shukri Conrad's leadership, will look to build on their confidence from the World Test Championship final victory.
The series will also provide an opportunity for South Africa to demonstrate its bowling depth, particularly if Kagiso Rabada is fit. Smith thinks this could prove significant in the Test matches, where the home team's ability to adapt to different conditions will be crucial. Ultimately, Smith hopes the cricket will shine through in a competitive series with many great talking points.
Key points
- Graeme Smith warns Australia to prepare for renewed scrutiny over 'Sandpapergate' during their multi-format tour of South Africa.
- Smith believes Australia must manage the 'Sandpapergate' issue instead of letting it overshadow matters on the field.
- The series will also highlight South Africa's batting department as an area of concern ahead of the Tests.
